Transforming Business through Digital Manufacturing

1. Digital manufacturing gives companies improved control, increased efficiency, less downtime, higher productivity and more flexible manufacturing.
2. Ninety percent of future products will be developed virtually, according to the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS).
3. Many call the next phase in digitizing the manufacturing sector "Industry 4.0.”
4. Companies large and small are making the move to digital manufacturing and using data acquisition and analytics in many different ways.
5. The digital transformation is not just a new challenge to forward-thinking manufacturers. It is also perhaps the most significant opportunity in decades to pull ahead of competitors.
6. Style, speed to market, customer choice and customization, and 3D printing developments are also changing the face of business as technology advancements offer increasing options to consumers.

The increase in the quantity and quality of computer systems in manufacturing plants has led to an integrated approach to manufacturing which is centered on computers. The increase of automated tools has made it necessary to model, simulate and analyze all aspects of the machines in order to optimize the manufacturing process. Increasingly powerful software enables design refinements to many tools and machines, and allows manufacturing engineers to use 3D modeling to design factory floor layouts and the flow of production. All this has led to ways to increase production efficiency before production even begins. Simulation also allows engineers to analyze how changes in a system can affect the performance of that system. As more companies begin to understand the value and benefits of digital manufacturing, the revolution is sweeping across all areas of commerce. At the same time, new developments in sewing, weaving, 3D printing and increasing customer-driven customization of products are changing the way consumers order and buy products.

The digital transformation is not just a new challenge to forward-thinking manufacturers. It is also perhaps the most significant opportunity in decades to pull ahead of competitors. Those who seize the opportunity to redesign and recalibrate all aspects of business models and processes will be on the leading edge of success, now and in the long-term. The process of enabling and enhancing automation, collaboration and business intelligence must include the entire business, from research and development to distribution and sales. Noticing and taking advantage of trends and evolving technology is the cornerstone of success in this rapidly-changing business environment.

The business outcomes and benefits of going digital are clear. Improvements in visibility, security, operational efficiency and productivity, reduced downtime, and increased supply chain flexibility are competitive advantages for manufacturers.