Manufacturers are still feeling the brunt of the coronavirus pandemic, with disruption set to proceed well beyond 2022. As such, thought leaders are looking for ways to address the weaknesses in their operations and optimize systems using advanced technologies and, of course, the power of data. Because of the rapidly changing face of market conditions, long-term programs focusing on digital transformation are no longer providing real benefits. Instead, many are turning to shorter-term solutions to make the kind of strides needed in a hypercompetitive marketplace. 

Three Steps to Properly Managed Manufacturing Operations

Most manufacturing operations are complex, with several elements that must dovetail seamlessly for maximum output — and revenue. Getting each of these areas under control can help deliver the kind of efficiency, production, and output that contribute to greater revenues and minimized risks. Here are three steps to take when creating an overall strategy for optimal efficiency:

Step One: Focus on the Product

Creating and delivering a high-quality product is essential for longevity and profitability in the world of manufacturing. You must consider your available resources in the form of supply chain vendors and supplier relationships as well as your organizational priorities, such as optimizing for cost versus for design. In addition, you should focus on a waste reduction policy that streamlines production and reduces money spent on overstock.

Step Two: Fine Tune Equipment

To ensure you have a quality product, you must first have the best equipment. Create an assessment of current equipment along with an inventory and check the following:

• Is there a regularly followed maintenance schedule?
• Are repairs needed?
• Do parts need replacement?
• Do we have an inventory of parts if one is needed?

While these tasks may seem simplistic, they are the foundation of an efficient and productive factory floor. Machine downtime is extraordinarily expensive and can run up to $22,000 per minute in some cases. That number does not take into account the cost of lost trust when your customers do not receive their product on time or with the proper quality. Lack of inventory due to machine downtime can cause far-reaching consequences downstream and position your organization as a poor risk for ongoing and future partnerships.

Step Three: Use Technology to Supercharge Steps One and Two

Having a high-quality product means having efficient processes and reliable equipment, both of which can be fine-tuned and improved with the introduction of automated systems and management software. 

Automated systems often use software that can be deployed remotely or in-house to coordinate with hardware that exists on the manufacturing floor. Through automation, operations can be optimized and workflows streamlined to increase efficiency and productivity and reduce the possibility of errors and slowdowns. Software that continually works to control access, remotely assess system functionality and security, and simplify processes can assist with more secure operations and better quality control. 

Even simple solutions such as print management, which can save you up to 30% on print costs — can contribute significantly to the optimization of your resources — and your budget. If you add enterprise content management (ECM) or document management solutions (DMS) to the mix, you can further increase your organization’s ability to automate processes for greater gains in productivity. 

Tying all these technologies together, however, takes focused IT knowledge, which many organizations simply do not have. That is why partnering with a third party for Managed IT services is a smart way to gain access to high-level techniques and technologies without the fuss and expense of vetting and hiring in-house staff.

Blue Technologies — Your Team for Optimal Automation

At Blue Technologies, we understand that it can be difficult to manage all parts of a multi-faceted manufacturing organization, especially if you don’t have an in-house IT team with next-gen knowledge. That is why we have assembled a Managed IT team that is conversant in the latest — and most effective — ways to automate, optimize, and secure your manufacturing environment.

Managing your manufacturing operation can be easier, more efficient, and more profitable with the right infrastructure and software solutions in place. Our team is adept at assessing your current environment, gaining knowledge of your specific needs and challenges, and deploying a comprehensive IT program that will keep your business running smoothly — and optimally. 

Get the benefit of next-gen IT knowledge. Contact a Blue Technologies consultant and discover how our wide range of resources can help you take productivity and profitability to the next level.