Digital manufacturing is the application of computer systems to manufacturing services, supply chains, products and processes. Digital manufacturing technologies link systems and processes across all areas of production to create an integrated approach to manufacturing, from design to production and on to the servicing of the final products.
Simulating processes it is possible to improve the quality of manufacturing
decision making, while improving the processes to create cost savings, elicit
time to market, and create a joined up manufacturing process that unites
digital tools with the physical execution of manufacturing.
With the using a process that is centred around a computer, manufacturers can create a digital thread through the manufacturing process to analyse data across the product lifecycle and create actionable processes. Digital manufacturing systems also allow for customer data to be sent to product managers in order to anticipate demand and any ongoing maintenance requirements to deliver products via manufacturing that is centred on customer needs.
Adopting and adapting to digital is crucial for businesses across industries to compete and succeed. But it can be difficult for many to navigate their way through digital transformation to connect with customers and have an influence online.
With digital disruptors snapping at the heels of many industries (just think of travel sector transformer Airbnb and audio disruptor Spotify) success will come to businesses that ensure their staff has the necessary digital skills to future-proof a workforce.
Essentially any transformation must be woven into the fabric of the company and championed by senior leaders to have the greatest impact. Unfortunately, many businesses are falling behind. Some think they are too late to get started. According to Boston Consulting Group, only 30 percent of companies navigate a digital transformation successfully.
Often referred to when discussing the factory of the future, digital manufacturing is an integrated approach to manufacturing that is centered around a computer system. It’s uniquely designed to improve operational efficiencies, supply chain planning, inventory cost control, compliance requirements and operation within the Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT).
Digital manufacturing is an attractive concept because it enhances connectivity, productivity, quality and consistency through automation intelligence and virtual representation effectively lowering costs and helping companies remain competitive.
Here are five reasons to transform an industrial operation with digital manufacturing:
- Enhance operational efficiency with improved processes. Departing
from traditional paper and manual processes by deploying automated,
cloud-based solutions helps streamline process flow, access helpful
analytics, improve decision-making capabilities, avoid costly rework and downtime, simplify performance monitoring, deliver to the market faster and provide detailed digital product representations, all while improving quality and reducing waste.Innovate by utilizing state-of-the-art technology. - To achieve new capabilities like better employee collaboration, predictive
analytics, machine learning, connectivity and 3D modeling, it’s worth it to
invest in the right digital infrastructure, especially when it comes to investing
in the right software. - A digital manufacturing approach helps eliminate silos by intertwining planning and development with new technology.Attract and empower the next generation of workers. Digital manufacturing can help fill job openings in the manufacturing industry. By investing in new digital manufacturing technology, there’s a better chance of attracting and retaining new workers who want to use that technology to increase efficiencies through
process improvement. - Increase customer satisfaction – Digital manufacturing helps increase brand awareness, in turn helping businesses provide more customer-specific solutions.
- Reduce costs – Digital manufacturing helps businesses gain better insight into supply chain issues, such as inventory levels, delivery status and demand cycles. This increased visibility helps reduce unnecessary risk and costs related to things like excessive inventory