As we enter the halfway mark of 2018, it’s a good idea for manufacturing companies to look at what trends are shaping the year and how to take advantage of these changes.
Does your company know about the Internet of Things? What about artificial intelligence? As new technologies drive trends and improvements, it’s important for manufacturers to keep up and find opportunities whenever they can. In this guide, we take a look at 3 major trends for 2018 that are rocking and will continue to rock the manufacturing industry.
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Eco-Friendly Manufacturing
At a time when concerns over sustainability and reducing carbon footprint have never been more pronounced, it comes as no surprise why the green movement has made its way into manufacturing processes. Eco-friendly manufacturing is efficient and reduces costs, all while improving your company’s reputation and position as a responsible member of the community. The latter is especially important today, as more consumers look for green products and packaging.
In addition, sustainable manufacturing processes are actually becoming more practical, what with dwindling supplies of resources, raw materials, and energy raising the need for renewable energy, materials, and techniques.
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The Internet of Things (IoT)
For something that gets mentioned a lot in the manufacturing industry, it’s not exactly clear what the Internet of Things (IoT) is. Simply put, IoT refers to a network of ‘smart’ devices that have Internet connectivity.
With consumer electronics, this often refers to things like thermostats, Bluetooth speakers, and even light bulbs. These devices can interact with each other over the Internet and/or wireless networks and share data. In manufacturing, the IoT is expected to be felt most in the purchasing side of the industry, where transactions will increase productivity and help lower overall costs.
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Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence has already made its way into our homes with devices like Amazon Echo and Google Home, which automate and simplify daily tasks and activities. Naturally, these benefits are also being felt in the manufacturing industry.
It’s not just about robotics or self-driving vehicles, which your company probably already uses to some extent. It’s also about integrating AI to perform a wide range of tasks, from conducting rapid analyses, storing and accessing data sets, predicting maintenance, and tracking inventory. It’s not the sexiest side of manufacturing, but one that’s ripe for improved efficiency and productivity thanks to AI.
For more insights and updates about the manufacturing industry, be sure to follow this blog. If you need access to top-notch talent in manufacturing, talk to the staffing services experts of Top Notch Personnel.
