In this episode, we’re shining a spotlight on local manufacturers who are stepping up to build their digital capabilities and develop their own Smart Manufacturing (SM) roadmaps. This month our panelists are sharing valuable insights from their SM journeys, including working within the supportive environment provided by Manufacturing Works, leveraging essential guidance from facilitators, and utilizing CESMII’s Acceleration Framework & SM Roadmapping tools.
Watch the full episode for in-depth insights from our manufacturing leaders as they share lessons learned in engaging their organizations, overcoming key barriers, and building successful plans that have garnered widespread support.
Top 5 Takeaways
- Crawl, walk, run. Innovation is often linked with speed, but our panelists recommend starting slow when it comes to SM. Before you act, assess your key priorities and create a plan that looks at today, tomorrow, and the future. Always start with the end result in mind.
- People, processes, and technology – in that order! Smart Manufacturing – like any mindset shift – requires synergy across a combination of resources. As engineers, we tend to start with technology but with SM, our panelists recommend looking holistically at the needs of your organization.
- Newsflash: every journey is unique. We all know this but when you’re in the early stages of Smart Manufacturing it’s not uncommon to go in search of pre-canned solutions. By starting with your business strategy and involving your whole team, your roadmap will be customized for your goals and culture.
- Phone a friend – your network is so important whether you are just starting out or almost to the finish line. Collaboration and support from your ecosystem partners play a major role in your ability to achieve what you set out to do.
- The tools are great – use them! The SM landscape has grown so much over the years. No matter where you are in your journey, look at CESMII for roadmap tools, network with local communities like Manufacturing Works in Ohio, engage with industry experts like NxGen Group, and so many more.
Special thanks to our panelists:
- Mark Dawson, President, Cleveland Steel Tool
- Doug Keehan, Plant Manager, Advanced Polymer Coatings, Inc.
- Jim Wetzel, Founder, The NxGen Group
- Sophia Long, Manager, Industry & Innovation, Team NEO, (Panel Moderator)
