Manufacture Smarter Blog

5/22/2024 Automation has many benefits for small and midsize manufacturers, and in today’s competitive job market, augmenting your workforce is a big perk. Automation, in general, enables machines to perform functions with minimal to no human intervention. Whether you use cloud-based software to analyze data or employ robotics equipment to make work easier and safer for existing staff, automated tools can boost productivity and morale across your organization.

3/25/2024 In the ever-evolving landscape of business, efficiency is the key to success, and one area where this is particularly crucial is supply chain management. Industries are becoming more complex and globalized, and traditional supply chain management methods aren’t cutting it. Enter Artificial Intelligence (AI), a game-changing technology that is transforming the way businesses manage their supply chains.

2/26/2024 Today, companies are envisioning—and producing—designs that wouldn’t be possible with traditional, subtractive manufacturing methods. The question today is no longer “Can I transition production of Widget X to additive manufacturing?” but instead “How does additive’s potential change how I design Widget X?”

1/29/2024 As we face the impact of technology, increased global competition, and an ongoing labor shortage, our ingenuity and resilience will be crucial to creating an even brighter future. So what should be our priorities to keep Michigan manufacturers leading the charge?

12/21/2023 Food processors large and small help us pack, preserve, and share delicious foods across our state and nation. Industry 4.0 technology is making it possible for food manufacturers to streamline operations and enhance quality.

8/11/2023 - BY: ROBERT SCIPIONE
It appears everyone is talking about Artificial Intelligence (AI). Although the technology is not brand new, it has now developed enough and weaved its way into various life applications, with manufacturing being one. AI has emerged as a game-changer in the manufacturing industry, revolutionizing traditional processes and unlocking new opportunities for operational efficiency, productivity and innovation. The integration of AI into manufacturing processes has paved the way for advanced automation, predictive analytics and data-driven decision-making, leading to improved outcomes and competitive advantages. Let’s look at ways AI can help manufacturers.

7/7/2023 - BY: CHUCK WERNER
As technology continues to advance, one of our top priorities at the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (The Center) is to support manufacturers through their selection of business information systems. From our analysis of more than 500 technology opportunity assessments around the state, we have found roughly 80% of participants have an information system and nearly 90% of those strongly dislike the system they have.

6/23/2023 - BY: ROBERT SCIPIONE
As we know, Industry 4.0 technologies are changing the way we manufacture goods and how we operate our businesses. For small to medium-sized manufacturers, it is essential to implement these technologies to stay competitive, optimize operations and attract new talent. Speaking of new talent, new tech in your facility is a great way to attract a younger population who is entering the workforce.

5/12/2023 - BY: THE CENTER
Every year, Automation Alley hosts an outstanding Industry 4.0 event, Integr8. Our team at the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (The Center) is grateful to be a featured guest, enabling us to speak with manufacturers about how they can adapt Industry 4.0 technologies to grow their businesses.

4/14/2023 - BY: GEORGE SINGOS
At the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (The Center), our team enjoys the opportunity to visit clients in their facilities. Seeing the business in person gives us a well-rounded understanding of the current state and where we could potentially help the company improve.