Discrete manufacturing includes a host of industries including automotive, aerospace, defense, consumer goods, industrial machinery, and components industries. All of them face common challenges such as resource volatility, product complexity, traceability, global competition, increasing customer demands, and shorter innovation cycles.
The question at this juncture, in front of the discrete manufacturers, is “Do you want to leverage the benefits of IoT to stay ahead in this global economy?”
The competition is heating up. Not to forget the demanding customer base, who wants more choice, better customization, quick information, and better support before they commit to a product. Hence, discrete manufacturers across the globe are today proactively exploring the use of the IoT to better connect their supply chains, assets, and products.
Most manufacturers start with simpler projects, such as asset tracking and progress to more complex processes that require advanced analytics or automation. IoT can be used in discrete manufacturing for creating the following.
- connected products – With smart connected products, manufacturers can now track, manage and control product information at any phase of its lifecycle at any time and any place in the world.
- connected shop floor – Today’s production floor consists of a number of interconnected assets. These interconnected devices drive efficiency, quality, and flexibility. It helps in quality control, customizable products, safer workplaces, and real-time visibility.
- innovative business models – A competitive landscape demands that companies embrace innovation. Companies need to constantly think ahead, taking cognizance of the fact that it will be automation, smart products, and innovation that drive new business models.
Efficiency is the core of manufacturing. Companies using IoT experience varied benefits, including higher efficiency, fewer product defects and an increase in customer satisfaction. Manufacturers who adopt IoT solutions are less likely to experience any unexpected slowdown due to mechanical failure or unavailability of raw materials. Asset and process optimization help to commit to accurate delivery dates for better customer satisfaction. IoT makes it possible to monitor items down to a very granular level to ensure a quality of processes and products.
Real-time supply chain visibility helps discrete manufacturers identify potential supply chain problems before they occur. Inventory holding costs, high capital expenditures, vendor problems etc. can be completely avoided in a well-connected supply chain. IoT applications provide insights and transparency throughout the entire process flow, minimizing potential waste and providing greater efficiency. Another aspect of benefiting of IoT capabilities is the ability to support customers proactively through remote monitoring and keep them happy with better after sales support.
Thus, IoT opens up a horde of new, interesting and smart possibilities for manufacturers. The major driving factors of adopting IOT in Discrete Manufacturing include:
- Business efficiency
- Lower operational costs
- Customer acquisition and retention
- Process efficiency, optimization, and control
- Asset optimization and utilization
- Product quality and performance
- Increased innovation
- Competitive advantage
The message is loud and clear. The companies that understand the importance of IoT and adopt smart solutions have the definite advantage over their competitors. The leaps made by IoT technologies, along with advancements in sensors, devices, connectivity, machines, and data analysis can take discrete manufacturing to greater heights than ever before. By actively pursuing IoT, discrete manufacturers have the ability to innovate and optimize all through the value chain, from design through supply to product development and after sales.
To read more about IoT solutions for Automotive Manufacturing check this Article. WeMakeIoT specializes in leveraging IoT technology to create end-to-end solutions that enhance the productivity across the manufacturing ecosystem. Building efficiency across the manufacturing network through smart asset maintenance audits is one of our areas of specializations. Connect with us at https://www.wemakeiot.com/ to explore further options in IoT-driven manufacturing solutions.