The future growth of the manufacturing sector lies in digitalisation. With the adoption of digital technologies anticipated to improve manufacturing productivity by 30% to 35% by 2030, it is clear that digital transformation is the key to unlocking future success.
Manufacturers are embracing these new technologies to remain competitive, productive, and efficient in the age of Industry 4.0 – the term to describe enhanced interconnectivity and adaptability in manufacturing environments.
With 81% of manufacturers reporting that they are ready to invest in new digital technologies to boost productivity[1], many will be thinking about which technologies are right for them and how it will benefit their operations.
Some organisations are looking to completely transform operations through digitalisation, by creating new business models to sell time and products through process automation. Others are implementing smaller and more bespoke solutions such as vision inspection tools to reduce errors and improve customer experience.
West Midlands 5G (WM5G) is helping manufacturers on their journey to digitalisation by offering free* resources and support sessions to give them the skills and knowledge to integrate new technologies into their own processes, leading to increased customer satisfaction.
WM5G’s tailored programme, The Manufacturing Digital Journey, helps manufacturers to realise the tangible benefits that can come from implementing digital processes, such as increased revenue and profit, keeping on top of customer demand, and improving customer satisfaction.
5G connectivity benefits.
Digital solutions
The adoption of digital technology in existing and new production facilities will result in significant manufacturing productivity improvements. A 2020 report by Make UK showed that during the pandemic, adopting digital technology boosted productivity by 15% and improved communications by 20%, evidence of the solutions this technology can provide.
To drive greater efficiencies, manufacturers are required to work quickly with an increased reliance on their networks to provide cost savings through reduced waste of both time and materials, enhance sustainability and increase outputs.
Digital technologies can provide solutions to drive productivity through enhancing efficiency at all levels, underpinned by the networks that connect devices. This is why 5G and other new technologies are proving to be so pivotal.
WM5G has conducted a series of trials to uncover the benefits of implementing digital technologies in manufacturing. This includes the launch of a 5G private network at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry, with the goal of providing evidence via use case trials that technologies like 5G can drive true productivity.
The use cases help manufacturers to see how new technology can impact day-to-day environment and operations.
Working with WM5G and technology partners nexGworx and BT, The MTC is exploring a range of use cases, including:
- A vision inspection system to analyse parts, featuring an industrial mobile robot that can transport assets across the factory
- A collaborative robot arm with a camera that takes pictures of the parts, instructing the mobile robot to move as required.
Deciding which approach to take is not easy, and entirely depends on the size and scale of your business. Through the programme, WM5G are on hand to support manufacturers through this transformation, offering tailored guidance and support.
Operational machinery on the factory floor at AE Aerospace, a WM5G trial and the first UK SME to deploy a 5G private network.
Your digital journey
By embarking on The Manufacturing Digital Journey, businesses will be supported throughout the whole process of digitalisation, no matter what stage of the journey they may already be at.
Supporting manufacturers of all sizes, the programme, which is free of charge for qualifying SMEs*, helps manufacturers to realise the benefits of digitalisation and to find and implement the right digital solutions for their organisation.
The journey spans four modules, aligned to different levels of experience. The WM5G team will guide manufacturers to the module most closely aligned to their current position and capabilities, ensuring the process will best build on their existing knowledge and understanding.
Manufacturers in the earlier stages should get in touch to book a free consultation with a member of the team, who will then determine the appropriate stage to join the Digital Journey. The Explore Sessions offer a good starting point for manufacturers, outlining the benefits of 5G technology and its applications within organisations.
Stages of Manufacturing – The Digital Journey, WM5G’s programme to support manufacturers’ journey to digitalisation.
Sessions are delivered by Riccardo Weber, Manufacturing Innovation Lead at WM5G, who has previously delivered innovative future thinking programmes to enable better and faster innovation from within organisations.
Embracing digitalisation is essential for manufacturers wanting to move forwards whilst driving revenue and improving customer experience. In the digital age, it is imperative for manufacturers to be forward-thinking, embracing learnings from previous use cases and finding smart solutions to tackle future challenges.
To find out more about Manufacturing – The Digital Journey and book onto a session, click here.
For any queries, please email Riccardo Weber: riccardo.weber@wm5g.org.uk.
