As with other industries, the manufacturing industry continues to develop in a dramatic manner and at a dramatic pace. Rapid advances in technology and automation are responsible for the emergence of modern manufacturing – “smart factories” driven by intelligent machines and software. These innovative plants allow manufacturers around the world to produce more inventory, with higher quality, in less time and at lower cost.
Based on data and experience, here’s what we think modern manufacturing and the factory of the future will look like:
Data will be the most vital resource for modern manufacturing processes
The factory of the future will be dangerously dependent on intelligence, both in terms of the physical technology and the software that drives it. Machine learning will become a critical factor in future manufacturing efforts, as data becomes the primary driver of many aspects of operations. Invaluable insights that manufacturers can leverage to evaluate product designs, improve processes, forecast demand, and drive operational and financial gains will be extracted from machine learning and data.
Industrial Internet of Things will be an important part of modern manufacturing
The Industrial Internet of Things, or IIoT, uses intelligent robots to improve production and reduce human interaction in the manufacturing process. IIoT will facilitate efficiency in all aspects of manufacturing operations by connecting devices and integrating intelligence gathering where previously this was not possible. Intelligent manufacturing machines will enable manufacturers to automate processes and create actionable insights based on real-time processes once they begin to communicate and learn from each other.
Mobile and adaptable facilities will become standard
To meet the changing demand, the plant of the future will be highly flexible and scalable. The factory of the future will focus on diverse capabilities and innovative construction rather than being limited to a single dedicated production line or physical location. Speed, responsiveness, and a more integrated supply chain will become the main drivers during facility and operations planning, with data being the driving force for decision-making.
The factory of the future is around the corner
When we talk about the future of manufacturing, we’re not talking about it now. According to CapGemini, 76 percent of manufacturers have either already implemented the Smart Factory initiative or are in the planning stage.
Many manufacturers are already using analytics to improve customer satisfaction, revamp processes, and redesign or customize their products. Other manufacturers have made significant investments toward modern manufacturing using robotics and manufacturing automation solutions to enhance workflow and operational efficiency.
Manufacturers who adopted manufacturing initiatives early on have already reported increased efficiencies, reduced product defects, and significant gains in customer satisfaction. Those who did not find themselves playing catch-up with the accelerating pace of development.
HSO can help move your manufacturing operations into the future
While physical technology such as robotics will be a large part of the factory of the future, software that links the technology will be just as important. HSO can help you develop and implement a digital transformation plan for . As one of Microsoft’s top partners, we can support you in addressing all aspects of your operations, including ERP, supply chain management, intelligent maintenance, cloud application development, and more.
Ready for more?
Watch this To learn from industry experts at Microsoft and HSO about the benefits of Microsoft Cloud and how it is empowering the factories of the future.