Use Culture and Data to Bring Your Company Current

As the Big Data revolution sweeps the business sector, manufacturing companies often struggle to keep pace. The customer demand is there; after all, American consumers and businesses are increasingly interested in domestically produced goods. But to stay competitive, the manufacturing industry may need to implement big reforms. By using data and culture, you can bring your company current and boost its longevity.

Anticipate Problems

For manufacturing companies, defects in equipment, materials or product components can have significant financial ramifications. Predictive analysis tools can help you anticipate problems early on and implement a fast solution. For large production facilities, one method is to collect machine performance logs and run programs that analyze the data. When a piece of equipment begins to vary from its usual tolerances, it's a sign something is wrong. The same principle can be applied to other crucial operational aspects, including cybersecurity, testing and process conditions.

Manageable Data Analysis

One of the main challenges of Big Data is finding ways to present managers and line workers with actionable analyses. Most manufacturing companies don't have the time or personnel to pore through endless spreadsheets or line-item outputs. To fill this gap, you can implement a manufacturing-specific data analysis program designed for day-to-day use. Products such as QualityWorX and the Liaison ALLOY Platform help nonexpert users visualize the data that's collected, so it's easier to identify irregularities and take action.

Use Data in Decision-Making

Manufacturing companies have historically made decisions based on a combination of experience and information. Unfortunately, that method is limited by human ability. After all, an operations manager can't be expected to connect two seemingly unrelated factors. Advanced data analytics give you the power to collect and connect dramatically different process data sets, both real-time and historic. The compiled data creates a picture of your process as a whole. When analyzed using mathematical models, this big-picture approach helps you spot the factors that have the biggest impact on production, particularly those that aren't obviously connected. As a result, you can make decisions that reduce variability and create a more predictable process. If your company isn't quite ready to bring in a qualified analyst, you can start by collecting as much data as possible for future use.

Build a Culture of Agility

In the age of artificial intelligence and rapidly changing technology, a business must adapt or die. For manufacturing companies that rely on time-tested methods, this can be a challenge. To succeed, it's crucial to start building a culture of agility. Bring in quick-thinking managers who are enthusiastic about improvement and innovation. Train your workforce in relevant technologies as early as possible so they can adjust quickly to operational shifts. Creating a culture that embraces change sets up your company for long-term success.

The changing industrial landscape is requiring manufacturing companies to rethink their operations. By integrating sophisticated data processing and shifting your culture accordingly, it's possible to create a lucrative and long-lasting future.

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