Internet of Things
How small manufacturers can implement digital technologies
Industry 4.0 is commonly known for its push towards more automation and digital technology applications. With UK government reports from 2017 showing that greater digitalisation could add £455 billion to the UK economy, it is no surprise that companies are trying to implement these changes. However, due to the large initial cost of creating a smart factory, many small manufacturers cannot keep up with their larger counterparts. Neil Bellinger, head of EMEA at automation parts supplier EU Automation, discusses how small manufacturing companies can digitalise their processes to keep their competitive edge.
digital skills make it hard for smaller manufacturers to implement this revolutionary change. So, how can small manufacturing companies keep up with the competition? With many businesses feeling the strain of the
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COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic instability over the last couple of years, it has become clear that those that can adapt and respond quickly to changes are the ones with tools and processes that are flexible to change, digital tools offer that flexibility. There are many tips on how small manufacturers
can overcome these obstacles, such as starting small and focusing on the small changes the business can make instead of the large, expensive and burdensome projects that can take years to
ndustrial digitalisation offers huge benefits to manufacturers - not only could it increase profits within a company, but also improve productivity by 25 per cent. However, the cost, risk, complexity and lack of applicable
make a profit. For example, companies can buy low- cost cobots like the Automata six-axis cobot arm for £5,000 or they can retrofit sensors on legacy equipment to keep costs lower. Implementing many small digital changes can have the impact of one large change without the added challenges that come with larger projects, such as integration issues, added training and extra maintenance. Other ways companies can lessen the
challenges of digitalisation is by empowering their employees. The old command and control management style is obsolete, instead successful businesses use hybrid top-down and bottom-up approaches. This means that instead of going up the chain of command to solve issues, employers are empowering the individuals closest to the problem at hand to create a solution and think of new ideas that align with an overall mission set by executive leadership. This can help boost morale, productivity and lessen the strain on managers.
May 2022 Instrumentation Monthly
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