When you think about the manufacturing industry, your thoughts may not immediately jump to technological innovation. In fact, the modern manufacturing industry is at the forefront of technology innovation, using cutting-edge digital and physical tools to produce everything from aerospace components to household items that you use daily.
In today’s blog, let’s look at how technology shapes the manufacturing industry and how this industry can benefit from pursuing quality IT support to keep these tools powered-up and producing.
1. The Rise of Industry 4.0 And Machine Automation
Did you know that we are currently experiencing a fourth industrial revolution? Industry 4.0 refers to the continued interconnectedness of machines, technological learning, and automation, marrying these concepts with the Internet of Things (IoT) to create never-before-seen technological innovations and manufacturing practices.
Now, the switch to advanced automation may make you feel as though the human component of manufacturing is coming to an end. It is undoubtedly not. These technologies require human hands and minds to utilize advanced technology to control the machines, analyze data outputs, and perfect overall automation.
2. Cloud Computing Within The Manufacturing Industry
Cloud computing services have reshaped the manufacturing industry, as cloud platforms utilize lightning-fast speeds to reduce reliance on physical data centers, servers, and outdated hardware. Accessing critical data needed to make important decisions regarding product quality, production changes, output, and demand is as easy as logging in.
In a 2017 study by Industry Week, it was found that 90% of global enterprises report using cloud computing and that 66% of manufacturing enterprises from 17 countries have implemented cloud services within their daily operations.
“If you’re still pondering the question about whether or not to move your manufacturing business and operational systems to the cloud, you could be left behind. Just like the question of getting a smartphone or a flip phone is outdated.” (source: Industry Week)
3. Additive Manufacturing: Advanced 3D Printing
The technology behind additive manufacturing, or advanced 3D printing, is revolutionizing the way that the industry conducts manufacturing operations by 3D printing critical components or products within the medical field, aerospace industry, auto parts, and many more.
The technology requires robust remote access, flexible automation, and seamless network integration to function properly. Due to the costs of additive manufacturing, companies cannot afford technical downtime, due to faulty or outdated network infrastructure. Employing the aid of local IT consultants will effectively reduce downtime, keeping this innovative practice up and running.
Employing Professional IT Consultants Is the Key To Manufacturing Technological Success
Qualified, professional IT consultants in the local area help keep the networks, such as high-speed wifi, physical data centers, 5G, all other network connections up and running, and maximum potential. With the manufacturing industry becoming increasingly fueled by connected networks, manufacturers must keep their networks running as smoothly, quickly, and efficiently as possible to achieve never-before-seen results.
Are you a manufacturer in Massachusetts and in need of local IT support to keep your facility powered-up and connected? Please reach out to M&H Consulting today, we have the expert knowledge and know-how to keep your facility running to maximum efficiency.
Categorised in: AI, applications, Digital Age, manufacturing technology, Transformation