Manufacture Smarter Blog

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.

7/28/2023 - BY: REBEKAH MCCARTER
The latest Capterra Supplier Relationship Survey underscores the complexity of today’s global supply chains. This tells us it isn’t as simple as identifying a solution.

7/14/2023 - BY: ANDY NICHOLS
Now that we’ve covered the cost of ISO certification, what the audit process entails and how to choose a conformity assessment body (CAB) let’s dive into non-conformities! It is important to know what they are, how they can be reported and what to do post non-conformity. At some point in the ISO 9001 certification process, the CAB auditor may observe and report a situation they deem to be a non-conformity. If this happens, it shouldn’t be viewed by anyone as a failure. Because it isn’t.

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.

6/30/2023 - BY: THE CENTER
The Center wishes you a happy Independence Day weekend! Enjoy time with loved ones out in the sun! 

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.

6/16/2023 - BY: BOB JENKINS
To strengthen designs and decrease failures, IATF 19649:2016 requires design engineers to be competent in Design for Manufacture (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA). This standard has greatly improved manufacturing with an increase in mistake-proofing features. Consistent third-party audits of the standard’s section 8.3 and questions about a designer’s background in DFM and DFA have continued to improve the process.

6/9/2023 - BY: JOHN SPILLSON
As The Center’s Food Business Development Manager, I’ve had the pleasure of touring this wonderful state. Work has taken me from coast to coast visiting destinations from Pinconning to Saint Joe’s and everywhere in between.

6/2/2023 - BY: ANDY NICHOLS
Third-party certification of organizations was initiated a few years after ISO 9001 was first published in 1987. In those early days, ISO 9001, 9002 and 9003 were intended to be used to help ensure the quality of products being purchased. Note that ISO 9003 was discontinued.

5/26/2023 - THE CENTER
Wishing everyone a happy Memorial Day weekend. We will be remembering and honoring those who sacrificed their lives serving our country.