Manufacture Smarter Blog

2/10/2021 - THE CENTER
As discussed in last week’s Industry 4.0 Foundations blog, the Internet of Things enables manufacturers to gain enhanced visibility into operations to further optimize performance. With data playing an integral role in these improvements, System Integration can help by providing more centralized, organized data for simpler, more effective decision-making.

2/5/2021 - BY: CHUCK WERNER
The effect of cost on profitability is generally well understood. The higher a company’s costs, the less profitable they can be. However, while companies often know if they are (or are not) profitable, they do not always have a clear understanding as to why. Gaining a true understanding of the impact defects have on profitability is key to improving business performance.

2/3/2021 - THE CENTER
Last week, in the first installment of our weekly Industry 4.0 blog series, we explored how Big Data enables manufacturers to make more informed business decisions. Building on this foundation of information, manufacturers can gain enhanced interconnectivity and real-time visibility through the Internet of Things.

1/29/2021 - BY: ANDY NICHOLS
In a recent blog post, we explored Industry 4.0 technologies from the perspective of Quality professionals, highlighting the importance of planning before implementing. This follow-up blog takes a closer look at the impact some of these technologies might have on the world of the typical Quality department and how they can be used to support Quality initiatives.

1/27/2021 - THE CENTER
The technological innovations of Industry 4.0 have created opportunities for manufacturers of all sizes to improve efficiencies, increase revenue and advance production methods. In a weekly blog series published over the next few months, we will explore the nine technology trends that form the building blocks of Industry 4.0 and highlight the specific applications and benefits of each.

1/22/2021 - BY: JAMIE HEADLEY
​The past year has been especially trying for manufacturers, bringing new problems to light while intensifying existing challenges like employee engagement and the growing talent shortage. To give manufacturers insight on how to tackle issues with engagement and retention, our team at The Center recently hosted the first virtual panel discussion in our ongoing Smart Solutions Series. Here are a few of the key topics explored.

1/20/2021 - BY: ANDY NICHOLS
The concept of Industry 4.0 has been gradually introduced into manufacturing facilities in recent years, bringing with it operational improvements and countless other benefits. In a two-part blog series, we will explore how these exciting developments can support ISO 9001-based Quality Management Systems (QMS), as well as dive into their impact on the overall Quality department.

1/15/2021 - BY: CHARLIE WESTRA
In both work and daily life, we often run into people who use intimidation to get what they want. Why? Because it works. Sometimes leaders choose to give in to subordinates’ loud or threatening behavior, as giving into the squeaky wheel seems easier than handling the actual problem. Over time, this sends a message to workers that such behavior is not only acceptable, but rewarded. How can leaders deal with this behavior in a way that is more controlled and fair?

1/13/2021 - BY: DAVE NELSON
The employee experience lays the foundation for building a strong company culture, which has a profound impact on an organization. A simple tweak to your employee experience can last a lifetime and save you a lot of future frustration and costs.

1/8/2021 - THE CENTER
In order to keep their companies afloat and moving toward success throughout 2020, manufacturers had to get creative with their business strategies. Our blog posts from the year tell the story of these challenges, triumphs and techniques, showing how manufacturers in Michigan and around the nation proved their resilience and strength in the face of new levels of difficulty.