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Three Business Examples That Effectively Practice Lean Manufacturing

Bhagyashri Kambale | December 13, 2021
EFFECTIVELY PRACTICE LEAN MANUFACTURING
Lean manufacturing principles enable manufacturing businesses to achieve spectacular results and overhaul their conventional operations. A wide range of industries have adopted lean manufacturing because of its enormous advantages, and they have seen excellent results as a result.

The 2010 Compensation Data Manufacturing survey indicated that 69.7% of manufacturing organizations employ lean manufacturing principles. By consuming this data, we can understand how far organizations have progressed toward incorporating lean principles into their operations.

“Many companies are not willing to change or think they are done once they make a change. But the truth is technology, consumer demands; the way we work, human needs, and much more are constantly changing.”

–Michael Walton, Director, Manufacturing Industry Executive at Microsoft

Let's look at some examples of lean manufacturing from some well-known companies. These leading-edge examples of lean manufacturing will shed light on how lean principles positively affect.

Leading Companies Using Lean Manufacturing Effectively

Successful manufacturing businesses like Toyota, Nike, and Caterpillar are currently employing lean manufacturing ideas in their production processes. In addition, Intel, Parker Hannifin, and John Deere embrace these techniques. From them, we've described three different organizations in various sectors that are successfully adopting lean manufacturing.


JOHN DEERE

John Deere has also implemented a lean manufacturing strategy. As a result, many of their quality control procedures are automated, which means that more components can be checked for flaws in less time. This means that more supply can be released each day, and the product can be supplied at a lower price to the consumer.

Additionally, these controls monitor the manufacturing process for each component of their products, ensuring that they never manufacture more than is required and waste essential materials in the process.


INTEL

Intel, known for its computer processors, has used lean manufacturing techniques to provide a higher quality product for an industry that requires zero defects. In the past, it took more than three months to get a microprocessor to the manufacturer, but this principle has helped shorten that time to less than ten days.

Intel rapidly learned that creating more but worse quality was not the way to raise revenues and increase consumer satisfaction with its products, which were extremely precise and technical. Instead, both parties gain from quality control and waste reduction initiatives. This is even true in the tech industry, where goods are constantly changed and upgraded.

TOYOTA

Toyota, the world's largest automaker, was the first to implement lean manufacturing in its manufacturing operations. But, even more importantly, they've learned how to limit products that don't match customer expectations by eliminating waste. To achieve these goals, Toyota employs two essential procedures.

The first is a method known as Jidoka, which loosely translates as "automation with the assistance of humans." This implies that, although some of the work is automated, humans always ensure that the result is of the highest quality.

When something goes wrong, the machines have built-in programs that allow them to shut themselves down. Known as the Just In Time (JIT) model, this is the second stage. Once the last part of a process has been finished, the next phase can begin. No unnecessary work will be done if there is a problem with the assembly line. This lean manufacturing technique has inspired thousands of other businesses.

Final Words

Lean manufacturing principles and their execution require discipline and patience to get the results out of them. When we see the successful lean manufacturing examples, it is not a fraction of a second success. They have devoted their time, energy, and efforts to modifying every single operational process in order to become a part of lean manufacturing. Lean manufacturing is not a method; it is a way of life that transforms your business practices and takes your firm to a new level of operations. Gain insights from renowned organizations' lean manufacturing success stories to help you become a part of the lean companies of 2022.

 

FAQ


What is the effect of lean manufacturing?

Lean is a performance-based, continuous-improvement strategy that removes waste and unnecessary processes from organizational operations. As a result, your company becomes more focused on the results.


Is it possible for lean manufacturing to fail?

It is conceivable in some circumstances, such as failing to focus on a single system implementation or implementing too many system changes at once and failing to have a sound follow-up system to check that everything is working effectively.


Why do certain businesses struggle with lean manufacturing?

Most businesses fail to see that lean is a management philosophy, not a set of tools. As a result, most corporate leaders either don't understand or lack the patience and control to implement lean manufacturing.

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5 Ways to Optimize Manufacturing Supply Chain Management

Article | February 1, 2022

A strong supply chain in manufacturing reduces interruptions, which may cost delivery businesses substantial time and money, as well as degrade their brand. Maintaining consistency is important in any form of business. However, the important question that remains to be answered here is how to achieve consistency when the driving factors seem to be out of the company’s direct reach. “The future of manufacturing is a critical enabler of economies.” – Kathryn Wengel In this article, we'll highlight the five ways to create a strong supply chain that helps any business reduce the risk of disruption and, finally, cost. Furthermore, we will discuss the supply chain leader, Cisco Systems, and how it ranked first in the Gartner supply chain top 25 for 2021. How Supply Chain in Manufacturing Is Different A well-functioning organization requires an effective supply chain. However, supply chain management in manufacturing is even more vital. Below are the three reasons why supply chain management is different and vital in manufacturing. Products are more complex than they have ever been Brand owners no longer manufacture their own products Manufacturing is becoming more technologically advanced 5 Ways to Build a Strong Supply Chain Strengthen Your Relationships Strong relationships require both parties to be transparent and to continually aim for mutual benefit. Manufacturers in supply chain management must recognize the significance of building strong associations with vendors and should act likewise.The primary benefit of a great, healthy vendor relationship is that it enables you to maximize the value of your business. The more familiar you are with your suppliers, and the more familiar they are with you, the more likely you will receive personalized service, preferred pricing, and exclusive terms. Effective supplier connections assist your business in the following ways. Delivery of high-quality materials on time Production goes off without a hitch Take advantage of incredible deals Excellent service Saving your business time and money Expand Your Supply Chain Maintain good working relationships with multiple vendors to ensure the efficient operation of your supply chain. This encourages healthy competition, which might lead to reduced prices and better service. A diversified supply chain enables you to look outside the confines of your organization while also fostering innovation and more creative approaches. Diversification of your supply chain provides flexibility, allowing you to adapt to changing market trends and consumer expectations. By diversifying your regional supply base, you may be able to provide more competitive rates on a local level. Maintain Accurate Data Both you and your supplier will inevitably suffer losses if your numbers are incorrect. Make sure your estimates are based on correct data or numbers and that you've taken into account all possible demand scenarios before drawing them. Collaborate with suppliers in the formulation of projections using your strong supplier ties. Under-and over-delivery and over-stocking can be avoided, and the likelihood of higher freight charges for urgent orders can be decreased. Organize Integrated Systems To make informed decisions at all levels of your business, you need a system that collects, integrates, and analyzes data. Supply chain integration is the process of establishing coordination and expanding connectivity across the whole supply chain, from procurement to production planning to logistics. Advanced technological solutions have made supply chains more efficient and simplified than ever before. Software automation in supply chain management also helps in decreasing the stress on employees, minimizing errors, and improving resource utilization by utilizing high-quality software. Always Have a Plan B The risks associated with your supply chain can be reduced significantly, if not eliminated. An effective disaster recovery strategy is a contingency plan that must be prepared keeping in mind all the worst possibilities. There are numerous approaches to mitigating supply chain interruption, including regionalization, segmentation, and supply chain diversity. Cisco Systems Tops the Gartner Supply Chain Top 25 For the second consecutive year, Cisco Systems is ranked first in Gartner's supply chain top 25. In addition, Gartner reports that the IT company's agility and competency in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) efforts prioritized critical infrastructure for hospitals and vaccine research. Cisco's sustainability standards are integrated into its supply chain business processes to ensure continual improvement and the generation of significant change necessary to manage ESG. Cisco established two new targets for greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) reductions after reaching specific, ambitious targets one year ahead of schedule: A 30% reduction in supply chain GHG emissions, and by 2025, 80% of Cisco's component, manufacturing, and logistics suppliers will have a public GHG emissions reduction objective. Final Words A supply chain is a vital component of nearly all forms of business. If you are facing difficulty in effectively controlling your business's supply chain, consider the techniques suggested. The manufacturing supply chain process flow must be well-designed and well-executed to successfully complete the production cycle. Today's technology enables you to transform a complex supply chain into a simpler one that aids in risk anticipation and reduction. However, utilize this technology wisely and keep in mind that interpersonal relationships remain a critical component of supply chain success. FAQ How to build a strong supply chain? When developing a robust supply chain, flexibility, data, future thinking, integration, and innovation are some of the most significant factors to be kept in mind. Moreover, keeping a backup of everything is critical. What factors characterize a strong supply chain? Visibility, optimization, achieving the lowest feasible cost, punctuality, and consistency are key factors of a successful supply chain. What is supply chain manufacturing? In the manufacturing industry, the supply chain is responsible for facilitating the transfer and transportation of raw materials into finished products.

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Digital Twin in Manufacturing: Helping Businesses in Growing Their Revenue

Article | April 1, 2022

Digital twin technology in the manufacturing industry is playing a vital role in evaluating current and future production line conditions to increase OEE, productivity, and business profitability. It has become the most critical component of industry 4.0 because it collects precise data about your manufacturing process and uses that data to help you make wiser decisions. In other words, manufacturers can utilize digital twins to check and assess physical assets, processes, and systems in a virtual environment. In this article, we will discuss some of the major applications of digital twin technology in the manufacturing industry. Additionally, we also have a look at how this technology helps businesses increase their ROI. Digital Twin Technology Applications Product Development Product development is a long and intricate process. For example, it might take up to six years to develop and launch a new automobile model. The shift from the previous model to the new model must be seamless. A minor error during this process might have a detrimental effect on the brand's value and revenue. A digital twin software enables the integration of data between previous-generation models and the new concept's digital representations. Additionally, twinning facilitates communication between product designers, end users, and other stakeholders. When it comes to product testing, having digital twin platforms eliminates the need to wait for performance data from car trials to determine the product's performance and quality. Design Customization As consumers become more intelligent, and demand personalized items in a timely manner, the manufacturing industry will become increasingly competitive. According to an Industry Week Special Research Report on the future of manufacturing, industrial enterprises of all sizes place a premium on process improvement and customer relationship strengthening, while small businesses focus on addressing customer demand for product customization. To assist in the customization process, manufacturers use Twin Design Customization, which enables the virtual design and re-design of goods prior to generating a physical product that fully meets consumer specifications. Shop Floor Performance Improvement The shop-floor digital twin concept helps businesses to be proactive as the system is capable of identifying anomalous situations. This demands attention and process improvements prior to them escalating into a real problem or standstill. Predictive Maintenance Individual digital twin examples for equipment or manufacturing processes can detect deviations that indicate the need for preventative repairs or maintenance prior to the occurrence of a serious problem. Additionally, they can aid in the optimization of load levels, tool calibration, and cycle times. Can Digital Twin Boost Business Revenue? According to a recent study by Juniper Research, revenue from digital twins (a virtual representation of a connected physical product, process, or service throughout its lifecycle) will reach $13 billion by 2023. This is an increase from an estimated $9.8 billion in 2019, representing an average annual growth rate of 35%. The study also discovered that increased deployments of advanced sensors for data collection and technological advancements such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, and high-performance computing are enhancing the benefits of digital twins. So, how does a digital twin help your company's ROI? The digital twin improves transformation efficiency by providing platforms and technologies that simulate the impact of process changes in your supply chain – in a safe, secure, and digitally isolated environment – using real-time scenario modeling generated parallel with live supply chain operations. More than a visualization, a digital twin can help accelerate innovation, foster consensus, and save time and money by iteratively modeling changes, testing how components or systems operate, and inexpensively troubleshooting malfunctions in a virtual world. Final Words The digital twin platforms benefit manufacturing organizations across all verticals, including supply chain management, manufacturing operations, and logistics. Thus, technology is accelerating and enhancing the manufacturing industry to obtain more positive results and, in turn, increase its efficiency and, as a result, its return on investment. The digital twin will gain popularity as businesses learn to use it to their advantage. According to a 2020 analysis conducted by Research and Markets, up to 89% of all IoT platforms will incorporate digital twins by 2025. Thus, the future of digital twins is bright, and we may witness increased use of digital twins in the next few years. FAQ How digital twin help businesses? Digital twins can help businesses make better data-driven decisions. Businesses utilize digital twins to understand the state of physical assets, respond to changes, optimize operations, and add value to systems. How does digital twin save money? A digital twin can save time and money by iteratively modeling modifications, testing component or system functionality, and resolving faults in virtual reality. What are the essential components of digital twin technology? The concept of the digital twin is composed of three unique components: the physical product, the digital or virtual product, and the linkages between the two.

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Top Electronics Manufacturing Trends to Watch in 2022

Article | October 13, 2021

The electronics manufacturing business is adopting new technologies to create smart electronics manufacturing products for its consumer base. Next-generation technologies are shaping the future of the manufacturing industry by enabling it to create technologically advanced and user-friendly products. Matt Mong, one of the manufacturing industry's leading professionals, stated in an interview with Media7, “Be Different. Don’t position your product in an existing category. Instead, create your category and make the competition irrelevant and obsolete.” – Matt Mong, VP Market Innovation and Project Business Evangelist at Adeaca. The year 2022 will be a year of advancement and development for the electronics manufacturing industry. So, manufacturers are eager to embrace new technologies and produce more innovative, more user-friendly goods that become part of consumers' daily lives and meet their needs. To make the manufacturing process manageable and deliver advanced products, we will look at the top five trends flourishing in the electronics manufacturing industry. Top Five Electronics Manufacturing Industry Trends Future manufacturing technologies are transforming the electronics manufacturing industry's processes and products. Let's look at the top electronics manufacturing industry trends for 2022, which will propel the sector to new heights of technological advancement. Utilizing the Benefits of the Internet of Things The Internet of Things is being used in both the manufacturing process and the products themselves. It enables electronic manufacturing products and processes to become more intelligent and performance-driven to fulfill business and customer needs. In electronics manufacturing, the Internet of Things (IoT) enables businesses to solve common production challenges such as product quality issues, changing demands, and a complex global supply chain. As a result, it increases productivity and efficiency while reducing human effort. Industrial units may gather and analyze real-time data and processes using IoT-based sensor systems. Additionally, it assists organizations in managing data and transforms traditional manufacturing into an intelligent manufacturing unit. Using an ERP System to Maintain the Company's Competitive Edge ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) is a centralized management system for all operational and business activities. The software automates all manufacturing processes and enables the electronics manufacturing sector to achieve higher precision throughout the manufacturing process and product delivery. ERP has the potential to boost productivity, improve efficiency, decrease expenses, and increase profitability. ERP enables electronics manufacturers to forecast, plan, modify, and respond to changing market demands. By using an ERP system in your manufacturing unit, you may expand your business and increase revenue. Making Use of Big Data The electronics manufacturing industry benefits from the use of big data to make critical business decisions. It aids in the integration of previously isolated systems to provide a comprehensive view of industrial processes. It also automates data gathering and processing, allowing for more excellent knowledge of each system individually and collectively. Big data also assists manufacturers in discovering new information and identifying trends, allowing them to optimize operations, improve supply chain efficiency, and find variables that impact manufacturing quality, volume, or consistency. In addition, big data assists the electronics manufacturing industry in keeping up with the rapidly changing digital world. Using AR and VR to Create Consumer-friendly Goods AR and VR are future manufacturing technologies that are changing electronics manufacturing products and driving growth. Robotics is a crucial usage of virtual reality in electronics production. Manufacturers may use powerful virtual reality software to design goods. This implementation of virtual reality software reduces production errors and saves time and money. AR in electronics manufacturing allows product developers to generate interactive 3D views of new products before production. AR and VR are part of Industry 4.0, the digital revolution of conventional electronics production units. Adoption of 3D Printing on a Wide Scale One of the essential advantages of today's electronics 3D printing is that companies can quickly prototype PCBs and other electrical devices in-house. In addition, 3D printing has simplified the electronics manufacturing process, and it is currently being utilized to manufacture multilayer printed circuit boards. It uses material jetting technology to spray conductive and insulating inks onto the printing surface. Let's look at an example of an analogy that worked for Jinzhenyuan - The Electronic Technology Co. Ltd., managed by Mr. Huang Runyuan, Jinzhenyuan's General Manager, and based on the concept of Industry 4.0. (Reference: Forbes) Jinzhenyuan - The Electronic Technology Co. Ltd. Takes a Significant Step Forward with Industry 4.0 Jinzhenyuan - The Electronic Technology Co. Ltd., formed in 2012, sells its products globally. In addition, it manufactures cellphones, computers, cars, and a variety of other consumer electronics. Due to changing market needs, the firm planned to upgrade its production facility to industry 4.0 by the end of 2017 to participate in smart manufacturing. The company increased production efficiency, shortened production cycles, and cut costs due to the digital revolution. Today, Jinzhenyuan is regarded as a model of digital transformation in the community in which it works. Let’s observe the statistics for Jinzhenyuan following the deployment of Industry 4.0. 32% improvement in total production efficiency 33% cost reduction 41% decrease in R&D to production cycles 51% reduction in substandard parts rate – from 3,000 to 1,500 per million Final Words The electronics manufacturing sector is on the verge of a digital revolution that will improve the production process efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Many of the world's biggest firms, like Apple, Microsoft, Hitachi, and Saline lectronics, are developing future agile factories to keep up with the world's digital transformation. Future manufacturing technology will help your manufacturing company make the manufacturing process more efficient and boost the business revenue. FAQs What are the future electronics technologies? Smart grid solutions, wearable technology devices, prefabricated goods, the Internet of Things, and robots are some of the future electronics innovations that will propel the business forward. Is the supply chain benefiting from new technology trends? Yes, supply chain management benefits from smart technology as well. Trucks equipped with cutting-edge technologies can get real-time data on the weather and road conditions ahead of time. It contributes to the supply chain process's reduction of possible risks. Which manufacturers are implementing the industry 4.0 concept in their factories? Whirlpool, Siemens, Hirotec, Tesla, Bosch, and Ocado, among others, have turned their traditional factories into digitally smart ones that incorporate all of the cutting-edge technology necessary to improve and optimize the production process. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [{ "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the future electronics technologies?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Smart grid solutions, wearable technology devices, prefabricated goods, the Internet of Things, and robots are some of the future electronics innovations that will propel the business forward." } },{ "@type": "Question", "name": "Is the supply chain benefiting from new technology trends?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, supply chain management benefits from smart technology as well. Trucks equipped with cutting-edge technologies can get real-time data on the weather and road conditions ahead of time. 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How Manufacturing Digitalization Benefits Businesses in 2022

Article | December 14, 2021

The manufacturing industry has evolved to new heights of innovation, productivity, and excellence with digital transformation. Manufacturing digitalization has made operational procedures more skilled, accurate, and time-savvy. “Many companies simply are not willing to change or think they are done once they make a change. But the truth is technology; consumer demands, the way we work, human needs and much more are constantly changing.” Michael Walton, Director, Industry Executive (Manufacturing) at Microsoft With a CAGR of 19.48 percent between 2021 and 2026, the digital transformation in the manufacturing market is expected to reach USD 263.93 billion by 2026. Manufacturing plants adopt digital technology to improve, automate, and modernize processes as part of Industry 4.0. So, what are the key benefits of digitalization for manufacturers? This article will elaborate on the top five benefits of digital manufacturing transformation. How to Define Digital Manufacturing? Manufacturing digital transformation involves integrating digital technologies into processes and products to improve manufacturing efficiency and quality. Manufacturing's digital transformation aims to increase operational efficiency and reduce expenses. The digital transformation techniques ensure product quality. It also makes work more efficient, safe, and stress-free. What Is Included in Manufacturing Digitization (Industry 4.0)? Industry 4.0 is the digitalization of manufacturing. Cyber-physical systems, IoT, and cloud computing are current trends in manufacturing automation and data exchange. Connected devices, cloud computing power, and the modern emphasis of lean, efficient operations enable Industry 4.0 to construct advanced and innovative smart factories. Industry 4.0 includes design, sales, inventories, scheduling, quality, engineering, customer and field service. Five Benefits of Digital Transformation in Manufacturing Manufacturing organizations can benefit from digitalization in a variety of ways. It can help make the work more efficient, decentralized, and secure. It further creates new business opportunities and attracts new talent to the industry. Additionally, integrating products into a digital ecosystem increases their value and appeal. Let’s dig deeper into each of the five key benefits. Reduces Costs Technology is an invaluable companion in reducing the manufacturing company's expenses in the future. The incorporation of digital technology results in the transformation of procedures and the digitization of documents, resulting in overall process optimization. Therefore, a reduction in labor costs might be expected as a result of the elimination of unnecessary expenditures. Additionally, digitization enables businesses to assess and estimate expenses considerably more precisely, ensuring that budgets stay on track. Additionally, it eliminates andsubstitutes inefficient jobs within processes, significantly increasing their efficiency. This efficiency is translated into time savings, which results in a substantially more cost-effective manufacturing process. Decentralized Production Manufacturing digital transformation allows organizations to supervise manufacturing remotely, allowing production to continue uninterrupted. In rare cases like Covid-19, digitalized businesses have not had to cease or even slow down production. These systems can work without interruptions for much longer than any worker. Digitalization also boosts methodology flexibility and reactivity. For example, if a production plant has a problem, an automatic alert is generated, and the issue is resolved regardless of the day, time, or presence. Improved Operational Efficiency Smart product connectivity allows devices to connect and communicate with each other (M2M). This connectivity enables decentralized decision-making. Many duties no longer require an employee to be physically present. New manufacturing and production models minimize boring, risky activities while increasing accuracy, efficiency, and responsiveness. Transforming businesses through digital means making better decisions based on real-time data. Training, changes, and repairs are no longer issues due to reduced frequency and automation. New Business Opportunities New digital technologies enable the manufacture of previously unviable products and services, generating new revenue streams. Also, new services (innovation or reorientation) are launched considerably faster. Companies may utilize big data and AI to experiment, anticipate trends, and predict about new advancements. These technologies can help organizations become more eco-friendly and create products that are less detrimental to our environment. Attracts New Talent Professionals with fundamental talents in this complicated and disruptive environment are drawn to digitalizedorganizations that are up-to-date with trends and processes. Also, if the change is managed well, it will lead to higher profitability, increasing employee satisfaction. Human motivation, along with excellent digital technologies, will reflect in the company's production and profitability. Dusseldorf@Germany: The Deloitte Digital Factory The digital factory in Dusseldorf provides a flexible setting for innovative workshops and training, bringing together the old and new worlds of supply chain and industrial operations to provide a seamless experience. Specific use case examples, as well as the digital solutions sector, will motivate and encourage businesses to get on their digital transformation journeys, making use of the most up-to-date technologies in the process. Final Words Manufacturing digitalization has a lot to offer the industry, and many manufacturers are capitalizing on this new phase of the industrial revolution by incorporating cutting-edge technologies into manufacturing and business operations. As said previously, the benefits of digital transformation in the manufacturing business are increasing the importance of digitalization in the industry. Transform your traditional manufacturing operating processes with these new manufacturing trends and observe the results that other benefitting manufacturing businesses have achieved. FAQ Why is digitalization vital in manufacturing? Manufacturing process digitization improves overall business performance. But the results are seen across the factory. Digital transformation improves working conditions for employees and streamlines daily operations. How are digitization and digitalization different? Digitalization is a transformation of data and processes. Digitalization is the use of digital technologies to collect data, identify patterns, and make better business decisions. How digital technologies are applied in manufacturing? Digital manufacturing technologies enable the integration of systems and processes across all stages of production, from design to production and beyond.

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5 Ways to Optimize Manufacturing Supply Chain Management

Article | February 1, 2022

A strong supply chain in manufacturing reduces interruptions, which may cost delivery businesses substantial time and money, as well as degrade their brand. Maintaining consistency is important in any form of business. However, the important question that remains to be answered here is how to achieve consistency when the driving factors seem to be out of the company’s direct reach. “The future of manufacturing is a critical enabler of economies.” – Kathryn Wengel In this article, we'll highlight the five ways to create a strong supply chain that helps any business reduce the risk of disruption and, finally, cost. Furthermore, we will discuss the supply chain leader, Cisco Systems, and how it ranked first in the Gartner supply chain top 25 for 2021. How Supply Chain in Manufacturing Is Different A well-functioning organization requires an effective supply chain. However, supply chain management in manufacturing is even more vital. Below are the three reasons why supply chain management is different and vital in manufacturing. Products are more complex than they have ever been Brand owners no longer manufacture their own products Manufacturing is becoming more technologically advanced 5 Ways to Build a Strong Supply Chain Strengthen Your Relationships Strong relationships require both parties to be transparent and to continually aim for mutual benefit. Manufacturers in supply chain management must recognize the significance of building strong associations with vendors and should act likewise.The primary benefit of a great, healthy vendor relationship is that it enables you to maximize the value of your business. The more familiar you are with your suppliers, and the more familiar they are with you, the more likely you will receive personalized service, preferred pricing, and exclusive terms. Effective supplier connections assist your business in the following ways. Delivery of high-quality materials on time Production goes off without a hitch Take advantage of incredible deals Excellent service Saving your business time and money Expand Your Supply Chain Maintain good working relationships with multiple vendors to ensure the efficient operation of your supply chain. This encourages healthy competition, which might lead to reduced prices and better service. A diversified supply chain enables you to look outside the confines of your organization while also fostering innovation and more creative approaches. Diversification of your supply chain provides flexibility, allowing you to adapt to changing market trends and consumer expectations. By diversifying your regional supply base, you may be able to provide more competitive rates on a local level. Maintain Accurate Data Both you and your supplier will inevitably suffer losses if your numbers are incorrect. Make sure your estimates are based on correct data or numbers and that you've taken into account all possible demand scenarios before drawing them. Collaborate with suppliers in the formulation of projections using your strong supplier ties. Under-and over-delivery and over-stocking can be avoided, and the likelihood of higher freight charges for urgent orders can be decreased. Organize Integrated Systems To make informed decisions at all levels of your business, you need a system that collects, integrates, and analyzes data. Supply chain integration is the process of establishing coordination and expanding connectivity across the whole supply chain, from procurement to production planning to logistics. Advanced technological solutions have made supply chains more efficient and simplified than ever before. Software automation in supply chain management also helps in decreasing the stress on employees, minimizing errors, and improving resource utilization by utilizing high-quality software. Always Have a Plan B The risks associated with your supply chain can be reduced significantly, if not eliminated. An effective disaster recovery strategy is a contingency plan that must be prepared keeping in mind all the worst possibilities. There are numerous approaches to mitigating supply chain interruption, including regionalization, segmentation, and supply chain diversity. Cisco Systems Tops the Gartner Supply Chain Top 25 For the second consecutive year, Cisco Systems is ranked first in Gartner's supply chain top 25. In addition, Gartner reports that the IT company's agility and competency in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) efforts prioritized critical infrastructure for hospitals and vaccine research. Cisco's sustainability standards are integrated into its supply chain business processes to ensure continual improvement and the generation of significant change necessary to manage ESG. Cisco established two new targets for greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) reductions after reaching specific, ambitious targets one year ahead of schedule: A 30% reduction in supply chain GHG emissions, and by 2025, 80% of Cisco's component, manufacturing, and logistics suppliers will have a public GHG emissions reduction objective. Final Words A supply chain is a vital component of nearly all forms of business. If you are facing difficulty in effectively controlling your business's supply chain, consider the techniques suggested. The manufacturing supply chain process flow must be well-designed and well-executed to successfully complete the production cycle. Today's technology enables you to transform a complex supply chain into a simpler one that aids in risk anticipation and reduction. However, utilize this technology wisely and keep in mind that interpersonal relationships remain a critical component of supply chain success. FAQ How to build a strong supply chain? When developing a robust supply chain, flexibility, data, future thinking, integration, and innovation are some of the most significant factors to be kept in mind. Moreover, keeping a backup of everything is critical. What factors characterize a strong supply chain? Visibility, optimization, achieving the lowest feasible cost, punctuality, and consistency are key factors of a successful supply chain. What is supply chain manufacturing? In the manufacturing industry, the supply chain is responsible for facilitating the transfer and transportation of raw materials into finished products.

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Digital Twin in Manufacturing: Helping Businesses in Growing Their Revenue

Article | April 1, 2022

Digital twin technology in the manufacturing industry is playing a vital role in evaluating current and future production line conditions to increase OEE, productivity, and business profitability. It has become the most critical component of industry 4.0 because it collects precise data about your manufacturing process and uses that data to help you make wiser decisions. In other words, manufacturers can utilize digital twins to check and assess physical assets, processes, and systems in a virtual environment. In this article, we will discuss some of the major applications of digital twin technology in the manufacturing industry. Additionally, we also have a look at how this technology helps businesses increase their ROI. Digital Twin Technology Applications Product Development Product development is a long and intricate process. For example, it might take up to six years to develop and launch a new automobile model. The shift from the previous model to the new model must be seamless. A minor error during this process might have a detrimental effect on the brand's value and revenue. A digital twin software enables the integration of data between previous-generation models and the new concept's digital representations. Additionally, twinning facilitates communication between product designers, end users, and other stakeholders. When it comes to product testing, having digital twin platforms eliminates the need to wait for performance data from car trials to determine the product's performance and quality. Design Customization As consumers become more intelligent, and demand personalized items in a timely manner, the manufacturing industry will become increasingly competitive. According to an Industry Week Special Research Report on the future of manufacturing, industrial enterprises of all sizes place a premium on process improvement and customer relationship strengthening, while small businesses focus on addressing customer demand for product customization. To assist in the customization process, manufacturers use Twin Design Customization, which enables the virtual design and re-design of goods prior to generating a physical product that fully meets consumer specifications. Shop Floor Performance Improvement The shop-floor digital twin concept helps businesses to be proactive as the system is capable of identifying anomalous situations. This demands attention and process improvements prior to them escalating into a real problem or standstill. Predictive Maintenance Individual digital twin examples for equipment or manufacturing processes can detect deviations that indicate the need for preventative repairs or maintenance prior to the occurrence of a serious problem. Additionally, they can aid in the optimization of load levels, tool calibration, and cycle times. Can Digital Twin Boost Business Revenue? According to a recent study by Juniper Research, revenue from digital twins (a virtual representation of a connected physical product, process, or service throughout its lifecycle) will reach $13 billion by 2023. This is an increase from an estimated $9.8 billion in 2019, representing an average annual growth rate of 35%. The study also discovered that increased deployments of advanced sensors for data collection and technological advancements such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, and high-performance computing are enhancing the benefits of digital twins. So, how does a digital twin help your company's ROI? The digital twin improves transformation efficiency by providing platforms and technologies that simulate the impact of process changes in your supply chain – in a safe, secure, and digitally isolated environment – using real-time scenario modeling generated parallel with live supply chain operations. More than a visualization, a digital twin can help accelerate innovation, foster consensus, and save time and money by iteratively modeling changes, testing how components or systems operate, and inexpensively troubleshooting malfunctions in a virtual world. Final Words The digital twin platforms benefit manufacturing organizations across all verticals, including supply chain management, manufacturing operations, and logistics. Thus, technology is accelerating and enhancing the manufacturing industry to obtain more positive results and, in turn, increase its efficiency and, as a result, its return on investment. The digital twin will gain popularity as businesses learn to use it to their advantage. According to a 2020 analysis conducted by Research and Markets, up to 89% of all IoT platforms will incorporate digital twins by 2025. Thus, the future of digital twins is bright, and we may witness increased use of digital twins in the next few years. FAQ How digital twin help businesses? Digital twins can help businesses make better data-driven decisions. Businesses utilize digital twins to understand the state of physical assets, respond to changes, optimize operations, and add value to systems. How does digital twin save money? A digital twin can save time and money by iteratively modeling modifications, testing component or system functionality, and resolving faults in virtual reality. What are the essential components of digital twin technology? The concept of the digital twin is composed of three unique components: the physical product, the digital or virtual product, and the linkages between the two.

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Top Electronics Manufacturing Trends to Watch in 2022

Article | October 13, 2021

The electronics manufacturing business is adopting new technologies to create smart electronics manufacturing products for its consumer base. Next-generation technologies are shaping the future of the manufacturing industry by enabling it to create technologically advanced and user-friendly products. Matt Mong, one of the manufacturing industry's leading professionals, stated in an interview with Media7, “Be Different. Don’t position your product in an existing category. Instead, create your category and make the competition irrelevant and obsolete.” – Matt Mong, VP Market Innovation and Project Business Evangelist at Adeaca. The year 2022 will be a year of advancement and development for the electronics manufacturing industry. So, manufacturers are eager to embrace new technologies and produce more innovative, more user-friendly goods that become part of consumers' daily lives and meet their needs. To make the manufacturing process manageable and deliver advanced products, we will look at the top five trends flourishing in the electronics manufacturing industry. Top Five Electronics Manufacturing Industry Trends Future manufacturing technologies are transforming the electronics manufacturing industry's processes and products. Let's look at the top electronics manufacturing industry trends for 2022, which will propel the sector to new heights of technological advancement. Utilizing the Benefits of the Internet of Things The Internet of Things is being used in both the manufacturing process and the products themselves. It enables electronic manufacturing products and processes to become more intelligent and performance-driven to fulfill business and customer needs. In electronics manufacturing, the Internet of Things (IoT) enables businesses to solve common production challenges such as product quality issues, changing demands, and a complex global supply chain. As a result, it increases productivity and efficiency while reducing human effort. Industrial units may gather and analyze real-time data and processes using IoT-based sensor systems. Additionally, it assists organizations in managing data and transforms traditional manufacturing into an intelligent manufacturing unit. Using an ERP System to Maintain the Company's Competitive Edge ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) is a centralized management system for all operational and business activities. The software automates all manufacturing processes and enables the electronics manufacturing sector to achieve higher precision throughout the manufacturing process and product delivery. ERP has the potential to boost productivity, improve efficiency, decrease expenses, and increase profitability. ERP enables electronics manufacturers to forecast, plan, modify, and respond to changing market demands. By using an ERP system in your manufacturing unit, you may expand your business and increase revenue. Making Use of Big Data The electronics manufacturing industry benefits from the use of big data to make critical business decisions. It aids in the integration of previously isolated systems to provide a comprehensive view of industrial processes. It also automates data gathering and processing, allowing for more excellent knowledge of each system individually and collectively. Big data also assists manufacturers in discovering new information and identifying trends, allowing them to optimize operations, improve supply chain efficiency, and find variables that impact manufacturing quality, volume, or consistency. In addition, big data assists the electronics manufacturing industry in keeping up with the rapidly changing digital world. Using AR and VR to Create Consumer-friendly Goods AR and VR are future manufacturing technologies that are changing electronics manufacturing products and driving growth. Robotics is a crucial usage of virtual reality in electronics production. Manufacturers may use powerful virtual reality software to design goods. This implementation of virtual reality software reduces production errors and saves time and money. AR in electronics manufacturing allows product developers to generate interactive 3D views of new products before production. AR and VR are part of Industry 4.0, the digital revolution of conventional electronics production units. Adoption of 3D Printing on a Wide Scale One of the essential advantages of today's electronics 3D printing is that companies can quickly prototype PCBs and other electrical devices in-house. In addition, 3D printing has simplified the electronics manufacturing process, and it is currently being utilized to manufacture multilayer printed circuit boards. It uses material jetting technology to spray conductive and insulating inks onto the printing surface. Let's look at an example of an analogy that worked for Jinzhenyuan - The Electronic Technology Co. Ltd., managed by Mr. Huang Runyuan, Jinzhenyuan's General Manager, and based on the concept of Industry 4.0. (Reference: Forbes) Jinzhenyuan - The Electronic Technology Co. Ltd. Takes a Significant Step Forward with Industry 4.0 Jinzhenyuan - The Electronic Technology Co. Ltd., formed in 2012, sells its products globally. In addition, it manufactures cellphones, computers, cars, and a variety of other consumer electronics. Due to changing market needs, the firm planned to upgrade its production facility to industry 4.0 by the end of 2017 to participate in smart manufacturing. The company increased production efficiency, shortened production cycles, and cut costs due to the digital revolution. Today, Jinzhenyuan is regarded as a model of digital transformation in the community in which it works. Let’s observe the statistics for Jinzhenyuan following the deployment of Industry 4.0. 32% improvement in total production efficiency 33% cost reduction 41% decrease in R&D to production cycles 51% reduction in substandard parts rate – from 3,000 to 1,500 per million Final Words The electronics manufacturing sector is on the verge of a digital revolution that will improve the production process efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Many of the world's biggest firms, like Apple, Microsoft, Hitachi, and Saline lectronics, are developing future agile factories to keep up with the world's digital transformation. Future manufacturing technology will help your manufacturing company make the manufacturing process more efficient and boost the business revenue. FAQs What are the future electronics technologies? Smart grid solutions, wearable technology devices, prefabricated goods, the Internet of Things, and robots are some of the future electronics innovations that will propel the business forward. Is the supply chain benefiting from new technology trends? Yes, supply chain management benefits from smart technology as well. Trucks equipped with cutting-edge technologies can get real-time data on the weather and road conditions ahead of time. It contributes to the supply chain process's reduction of possible risks. Which manufacturers are implementing the industry 4.0 concept in their factories? Whirlpool, Siemens, Hirotec, Tesla, Bosch, and Ocado, among others, have turned their traditional factories into digitally smart ones that incorporate all of the cutting-edge technology necessary to improve and optimize the production process. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [{ "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the future electronics technologies?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Smart grid solutions, wearable technology devices, prefabricated goods, the Internet of Things, and robots are some of the future electronics innovations that will propel the business forward." } },{ "@type": "Question", "name": "Is the supply chain benefiting from new technology trends?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, supply chain management benefits from smart technology as well. Trucks equipped with cutting-edge technologies can get real-time data on the weather and road conditions ahead of time. 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How Manufacturing Digitalization Benefits Businesses in 2022

Article | December 14, 2021

The manufacturing industry has evolved to new heights of innovation, productivity, and excellence with digital transformation. Manufacturing digitalization has made operational procedures more skilled, accurate, and time-savvy. “Many companies simply are not willing to change or think they are done once they make a change. But the truth is technology; consumer demands, the way we work, human needs and much more are constantly changing.” Michael Walton, Director, Industry Executive (Manufacturing) at Microsoft With a CAGR of 19.48 percent between 2021 and 2026, the digital transformation in the manufacturing market is expected to reach USD 263.93 billion by 2026. Manufacturing plants adopt digital technology to improve, automate, and modernize processes as part of Industry 4.0. So, what are the key benefits of digitalization for manufacturers? This article will elaborate on the top five benefits of digital manufacturing transformation. How to Define Digital Manufacturing? Manufacturing digital transformation involves integrating digital technologies into processes and products to improve manufacturing efficiency and quality. Manufacturing's digital transformation aims to increase operational efficiency and reduce expenses. The digital transformation techniques ensure product quality. It also makes work more efficient, safe, and stress-free. What Is Included in Manufacturing Digitization (Industry 4.0)? Industry 4.0 is the digitalization of manufacturing. Cyber-physical systems, IoT, and cloud computing are current trends in manufacturing automation and data exchange. Connected devices, cloud computing power, and the modern emphasis of lean, efficient operations enable Industry 4.0 to construct advanced and innovative smart factories. Industry 4.0 includes design, sales, inventories, scheduling, quality, engineering, customer and field service. Five Benefits of Digital Transformation in Manufacturing Manufacturing organizations can benefit from digitalization in a variety of ways. It can help make the work more efficient, decentralized, and secure. It further creates new business opportunities and attracts new talent to the industry. Additionally, integrating products into a digital ecosystem increases their value and appeal. Let’s dig deeper into each of the five key benefits. Reduces Costs Technology is an invaluable companion in reducing the manufacturing company's expenses in the future. The incorporation of digital technology results in the transformation of procedures and the digitization of documents, resulting in overall process optimization. Therefore, a reduction in labor costs might be expected as a result of the elimination of unnecessary expenditures. Additionally, digitization enables businesses to assess and estimate expenses considerably more precisely, ensuring that budgets stay on track. Additionally, it eliminates andsubstitutes inefficient jobs within processes, significantly increasing their efficiency. This efficiency is translated into time savings, which results in a substantially more cost-effective manufacturing process. Decentralized Production Manufacturing digital transformation allows organizations to supervise manufacturing remotely, allowing production to continue uninterrupted. In rare cases like Covid-19, digitalized businesses have not had to cease or even slow down production. These systems can work without interruptions for much longer than any worker. Digitalization also boosts methodology flexibility and reactivity. For example, if a production plant has a problem, an automatic alert is generated, and the issue is resolved regardless of the day, time, or presence. Improved Operational Efficiency Smart product connectivity allows devices to connect and communicate with each other (M2M). This connectivity enables decentralized decision-making. Many duties no longer require an employee to be physically present. New manufacturing and production models minimize boring, risky activities while increasing accuracy, efficiency, and responsiveness. Transforming businesses through digital means making better decisions based on real-time data. Training, changes, and repairs are no longer issues due to reduced frequency and automation. New Business Opportunities New digital technologies enable the manufacture of previously unviable products and services, generating new revenue streams. Also, new services (innovation or reorientation) are launched considerably faster. Companies may utilize big data and AI to experiment, anticipate trends, and predict about new advancements. These technologies can help organizations become more eco-friendly and create products that are less detrimental to our environment. Attracts New Talent Professionals with fundamental talents in this complicated and disruptive environment are drawn to digitalizedorganizations that are up-to-date with trends and processes. Also, if the change is managed well, it will lead to higher profitability, increasing employee satisfaction. Human motivation, along with excellent digital technologies, will reflect in the company's production and profitability. Dusseldorf@Germany: The Deloitte Digital Factory The digital factory in Dusseldorf provides a flexible setting for innovative workshops and training, bringing together the old and new worlds of supply chain and industrial operations to provide a seamless experience. Specific use case examples, as well as the digital solutions sector, will motivate and encourage businesses to get on their digital transformation journeys, making use of the most up-to-date technologies in the process. Final Words Manufacturing digitalization has a lot to offer the industry, and many manufacturers are capitalizing on this new phase of the industrial revolution by incorporating cutting-edge technologies into manufacturing and business operations. As said previously, the benefits of digital transformation in the manufacturing business are increasing the importance of digitalization in the industry. Transform your traditional manufacturing operating processes with these new manufacturing trends and observe the results that other benefitting manufacturing businesses have achieved. FAQ Why is digitalization vital in manufacturing? Manufacturing process digitization improves overall business performance. But the results are seen across the factory. Digital transformation improves working conditions for employees and streamlines daily operations. How are digitization and digitalization different? Digitalization is a transformation of data and processes. Digitalization is the use of digital technologies to collect data, identify patterns, and make better business decisions. How digital technologies are applied in manufacturing? Digital manufacturing technologies enable the integration of systems and processes across all stages of production, from design to production and beyond.

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