NEONEX

Manufacturing companies face a major transformation in 2024 and beyond, driven by the latest trends depicted in the NEONEX Industrial Trend Tree. One key area of focus is Robotics & Automation, which has been a crucial field for efficiency gains for years. However, new technologies open up new possibilities for manufacturers. Let’s take a closer look at the transformative trends within this category that will reshape industrial operations: > 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝗗𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 Imagine a production environment with minimal human intervention. Autonomous dark factories use AI, robotics and intelligent sensors to create a closed-loop system that maximizes efficiency and sustainability. This trend is no longer futuristic but a reality already being implemented by forward-thinking companies. Transformative Impact: High Implementation Timeframe: 3 - 5 years > 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻-𝗥𝗼𝗯𝗼𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 This trend marks a significant advancement in how humans and robots interact. By using AI-driven predictive capabilities and motion pattern recognition, advanced robotics enable smooth and intuitive collaboration. This synergy not only improves efficiency but also addresses the demographic challenges of an aging workforce by making industrial tasks easier. Transformative Impact: Medium Implementation Timeframe: 1 - 3 years > 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 The use of autonomously guided vehicles (AGVs) and automated mobile robots (AMRs) is changing the way material is handled. These advanced systems improve efficiency in production and warehouse settings by adapting to complex layouts on their own, optimizing material transport, and boosting overall productivity and flexibility. Transformative Impact: Low Implementation Timeframe: Less than 1 year These advancements in Robotics & Automation not only promise to transform production processes but also tackle critical issues like labor shortages and the need for sustainable practices. By adopting these trends, companies can ensure long-term competitiveness and resilience in the ever-changing industrial landscape. In the coming months, we will explore the remaining key trends listed in the NEONEX Industrial Trend Tree in detail. However, you can get an in-depth look at all the trends right now by accessing the complete report on our website. Find the link in the comments below. #NEONEX #robotics #automation

Transforming manufacturing processes is a challenging task. Pepperl+Fuchs Gruppe, leading manufacturer of industrial sensors and explosion protection technology, aimed to enhance efficiency through making faster, data-based decisions, and encouraging teamwork across different departments by achieving smart operations. To achieve these goals, Pepperl+Fuchs worked with us to create a Smart Manufacturing Roadmap. This project brought significant advantages: > 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝘂𝗳𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗼𝗮𝗱𝗺𝗮𝗽: A clear and actionable roadmap was created, featuring evaluated, prioritized use cases for global implementation. > 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲-𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗳 𝗜𝗧 𝗔𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲: A robust IT architecture was defined, and relevant systems were selected to ensure a standardized and scalable implementation of applications worldwide. > 𝗖𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗵: The roadmap provided a transparent transformation path with necessary resources, roles, and responsibilities clearly outlined. The project encompassed several significant sub-projects, where each one contributed to the overall success: 1.   Smart Factory Qualification Bootcamp: Established a unified understanding and vocabulary among the core team through a four-day remote management training. 2.   Smart Factory Potential Analysis: Identification of 109 optimization potentials, leading to 42 actionable use cases across two representative production sites in the Czech Republic and Singapore. 3.   Data Management Assessment: Evaluated current data management practices and readiness for advanced analytics, resulting in a clear vision for future data governance. 4.   Connectivity and Resilience Check: Assessed IT/OT connectivity and resilience, highlighting best practices and local variations. 5.   IT-System Landscape and Architecture Review: Reviewed and defined a future-proof IT architecture tailored to Pepperl+Fuchs’ future needs. 6.   Ranking and ROI Calculation: Prioritized use cases based on ROI, creating a strategic implementation roadmap. 7.   Smart Factory Tour: Provided hands-on inspiration through visits to industry leaders Bosch and DMG MORI, showcasing advanced use cases and IT architectures. 8.   Roadmapping and Program Setup: Developed a detailed implementation roadmap, including system choices and sequencing of use cases. 9.   MES Selection Process: Efficiently selected a modular MES system through a structured assessment, ensuring it fulfilled all functional and non-functional requirements. This structured approach and expertise enabled Pepperl+Fuchs to start their digital transformation journey confidently, leading to enhanced efficiency, better decision-making, and a future-ready organization. #NEONEX #SmartManufacturing #DigitalTransformation

How can a Smart Factory boost the competitiveness of electronics manufacturers? In his latest article for the German magazine Elektrotechnik, our Managing Director Thomas Rohrbach discusses the journey from gaining high machine connectivity to achieving significant P&L benefits. In short: Proper data utilization and strategic digital transformation lead to enhanced efficiency, better capacity planning, and a more agile workforce. By reading the article, you’ll learn about the essential steps, from structured process design to effective IT system implementation, and how involving employees ensures the success of these initiatives. On a higher level, Thomas Rohrbach describes that transforming operations requires a concrete roadmap, the structured identification of improvement potentials, and the joint development of a future-ready production network. Find the full article through the link in the comments below. #SmartFactory #FutureReady

Do you want to shape the digital future and be part of our agile team that drives the industry forward to digital transformation? We have two exciting job openings: For the first one, we are looking for an engaged 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗿 to join our Smart Factory and digital transformation projects. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲𝘀: 𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 > Join & manage international projects of varying complexity with a focus on Smart Factory transformation. > Develop and support clients' unique digital strategies in their operations, guiding them through their digital transformation journey. > Present yourself as a professional expert, leveraging your communication and leadership skills to be a reliable partner for our clients. > Utilize your Industry 4.0 knowledge to strengthen our expert team and guide clients in implementing extensive, tailored projects. For the second job opening, we are looking for a dedicated 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 to join our mission of achieving true industrial performance by leveraging hidden synergies between people, technology, and processes. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲𝘀: 𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 > Support our expert team in developing solutions for our international clients. > Gain insights into the daily work of a consultant in digitalization and Industry 4.0. > Assist in preparing and following up on workshops, proposals, and concepts. > Take responsibility for sub-projects and maintain client contact. > Engage in various consulting topics and support the development of our consulting products. 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿: 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 > Engaging tasks in a growing management consultancy. > Creative freedom and responsibility with client decision-makers. > Unique insights into digitalization and Industry 4.0 projects. > Motivated and open-minded team in a trustful, agile environment. At NEONEX, we're more than just a team – we're a community dedicated to unleashing hidden synergies between people, technology, and processes. Apply now and be part of our journey to digital excellence! If you are eager to start your career as a Project Manager or Consultant in this dynamic environment, check the comments below to see what we expect from you! #NEONEX #career #becomewhoyouare

Gaining valuable insights on overcoming transformation challenges, the joined workshop during our last Smart Factory Tour revealed critical focus areas and provided participants with strategic solutions. Following a survey conducted by our Project Manager Fabian Dietrich to capture the challenges that the participant’s organizations face in driving transformation and maintaining competitiveness, these are the key findings: Common Challenges > Companies face similar hurdles in their transformation initiatives. To overcome them, they need to develop a clear vision. > Lack of clear communication and vision frequently leads to major issues in projects. > The skilled labor shortage is noticeable across all participant’s companies. Strategic Priorities > Ensuring long-term competitiveness with fewer personnel is essential. > Prioritizing customer satisfaction metrics remains paramount. Data and IT Management > Increasing confidence in internal metrics is crucial. > Implementing and integrating new and existing data management solutions requires a clear methodology. > Efficient communication and information flow between different departments are essential, but also often problematic. The workshop underscored the importance of IT competence and a renewed pioneering spirit to address growing pressures and drive transformation. As a solution, NEONEX Senior Partner Dr. Jochen Schlick highlighted eight essential principles for managers aiming to lead successful digital transformations: 1.   Automation: Leverage automation to cut costs and ensure adequate staffing for manual tasks.   2.   Transparency: Enhance transparency to significantly boost the efficiency and robustness of the entire value chain.   3.   End-to-End Improvement: Integrate coherent processes and targeted management as the cornerstones of end-to-end enhancement.   4.   Core Competency in Data Analytics: Emphasize data management and analytics for competitiveness in the value system.   5.   Knowledge and Complexity Management: Manage knowledge and complexity to navigate and succeed in this transformational era.   6.   Local Manufacturing: Redesign supply chains with a local focus, where automation and digitalization can already compensate the past cost benefits.   7.   Agile Production: Harness agility in production to secure significant advantages in revenue and cost efficiency.   8.   Pioneering Spirit: Rely on intelligent factory concepts with a pioneering spirit and the courage to innovate and an ROI can be proven in detail. Our workshop highlighted the need for a strategic approach to digital transformation in manufacturing. By focusing on these principles, companies can overcome current challenges and secure a competitive edge. Thanks to all participants for their contributions and engagement. We look forward to continuing this journey together and driving innovation in the smart factory landscape. Stay tuned for our next event! #NEONEX #SmartFactory #AgileProduction

Faced with an increasingly challenging business environment, many manufacturing companies have embarked on a journey to transform their operations in order to improve their competitiveness. However, achieving a significant ROI often remains difficult. In their latest article for DIGITAL MANUFACTURING magazine, NEONEX Senior Partner Jochen Leppert and Principal Claus Mahler discuss the critical factors for an effective digital transformation. They map ten essential requirements while doing so: 1. Awareness for the digital transformation and the change processes. 2. Establishing the same vocabulary for all stakeholders. 3. Development of a shared vision of the smart factory. 4. Identification of digitalization use cases with all employees. 5. Evaluation of use cases for a joint roadmap development. 6. Definition of the IT architecture for all use cases. 7. Correct implementation of the program set-up for a successful digital transformation initiative. 8. Engaging employees with the right communication strategy. 9. Accelerate digital transformation through agile project management. 10. Create the basis for a successful roll-out. By meeting these requirements, manufacturers lay the foundation for a successful digital transformation and gain a competitive edge. Click the link in the comments below to read the full article (in German). #NEONEX #DigitalTransformation #successfactors

Diving into the details about the digital transformation of manufacturing during day two of our last Smart Factory Tour! Full of new inspirations and ideas from day one of the tour, we began day two with a workshop that highlighted common digitalization challenges, the need for a clear vision, and the importance of IT competence in manufacturing companies. Participants discussed strategies with the #NEONEX team and were able to renew their pioneering spirit to continue driving transformation with the target of strengthening competitiveness in a challenging environment. After these inspiring insights, we went on a trip to Festool in Weilheim, the last stop of our tour. Festool showcased their strategic approach to digital transformation as a leading power tool manufacturer: > 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁, 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗗𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗲: A ten-year lean transformation laid the foundation for their digital initiatives. > 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺: A dedicated team supports IT solutions in production, enabling swift project execution without heavy central IT involvement. > 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗰𝘆 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺𝘀: Digital transformation began by breaking down a legacy BDE system into a standard MES and a custom life-cycle system. > 𝗠𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗧 𝗔𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲: A target modular IT architecture facilitated by an MSB flexible additions to best-of-breed standard systems. > 𝗖𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗟𝗼𝘄-𝗖𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝘀: A standard process for reviewing new apps was developed that ensures flexibility while maintaining necessary regulation and standardization. The tour provided a wealth of inspiration for future digitalization projects. A big thank you to DMG MORI, ifm, Festool and all participants who contributed to the success of the event. We look forward to the next Smart Factory Tour in September! #SmartFactory #DigitalTransformation #Manufacturing

Diving into the future of manufacturing with insights from day 1 of our recent Smart Factory Tour! The first stop on this tour led us to DMG MORI in Pfronten, where Reinhard Musch, Managing Director and his colleagues welcomed us. As a leader in the machine tool industry, the team presented their advanced Smart Factory initiatives: > 𝗠𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Comprehensive modularization allows for a significant part of the product portfolio to be manufactured in an impressive takt-based production system. > 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗢𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Following the principle "one worker builds one machine," automation solutions are prioritized where additional assistance is needed. > 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗡𝗼-𝗖𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝘀: Custom no-code apps address gaps in monolithic systems like SAP, allowing workers to solve problems on the shop floor on their own. > 𝗙𝗼𝗰𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: Emphasis on training in a dedicated training center and extensive activities to maintain a lean mentality, including a dedicated CIP department enable DMG to maintain their productivity gains. After a refreshing lunch with a nice view of the alps in DMG Mori's company restaurant, we continued our tour to ifm, a leading company in the field of innovative sensor technology. They shared their impressive journey with us: > 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁, 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗗𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗲: A thorough lean transformation increased productivity by 20%, with digitalization adding a further annual increase of 2-5%. > 𝗖𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻: The goal of winning the “Factory of the Year” award boosted acceptance and motivation for and of their digital transformation. > 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗧 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲: Robust in-house software solutions are developed with low-code applications despite the challenges of local execution and storage. > 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗨𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗢𝘄𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘀: Utilizing their sensor technology to create innovative applications that optimize processes and develop market-ready products. > 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗿 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝘀: Maintaining familiar formats in the first wave of digital apps reduced the need for printed documents and increased acceptance. The day concluded with delicious meals and vibrant discussions, enriching the overall experience. Stay tuned for insights from the second day of our tour! The target of our Smart Factory tours is to explore and learn from leading examples of digital transformation and operational excellence. By visiting different companies, we aim to inspire and equip participants with practical strategies to accelerate their own digitalization efforts. #NEONEX #SmartFactory #inspiration

The workforce shortage in Germany is reaching a critical point, forcing companies to find innovative solutions.   The impending retirement of millions of baby boomers will result in significant gaps in the workforce, driving companies to reevaluate employee skill sets for handling increasingly complex roles. The companies are challenged to optimize their operations to remain competitive in changing markets, which is driving the adoption of automation technologies. As companies confront a decreasing pool of skilled workers, the importance of utilizing advanced technologies becomes increasingly apparent. This transition also requires them to focus on upskilling their remaining workforce to handle more complex tasks.   Our Managing Director, Thomas Rohrbach addressed these challenges and opportunities with the Frankfurter Rundschau. Click the link in the comments below to read the full article.

Inspiration is key on the way into the future of industrial value creation, as a visit to local-for-local all about automation in Heilbronn, a regional exhibition on automation, robotics and digitalization, demonstrated once again. The diverse range of exhibitors included manufacturers as well as service and software providers, giving local manufacturers the opportunity to see and experience their solutions. The regional focus, combined with limited booth sizes, ensured that many companies from the area could be represented. The Talk Lounge program featured presentations and discussions on topics like automation for SMEs, digital transformation, robotics, and industrial communication. These sessions offered valuable insights and practical tips, allowing us to reconnect with familiar faces and exchange ideas with industry peers. This event underscored that digital transformation is not just a trend but an essential shift for the future of the industry. Automation helps companies build resilient and efficient operations. For manufacturers of any size, it addresses the skills shortage and unlocks significant benefits. Innovations in robotics and the IIoT are driving efficiency and productivity, thus enabling long-term competitiveness. #Automation #DigitalTransformation #NEONEX