The manufacturing sector has long been one of the first to envision, develop, embrace and deploy novel technologies, as this industry is reliant upon optimal speed, efficiency and productivity more than others. When supply chain or workflow matters get a bit clouded or shoddy, the chances of having a strong financial performance each year tends to deplete, and automation has helped a wealth of these firms tackle modern challenges in this regard.
From enterprise resource planning and workflow automation to e-invoicing and beyond, manufacturers have been able to reduce some of the strain, inaccuracy and inefficiency that traditionally emerged among core functions. However, a new report indicated that certain intelligence solutions such as big data and reporting analytics have not yet become popular or ubiquitous in the manufacturing sector, despite the strategic advantages these technologies offer.
Uncharacteristically slow moves
Automation World recently reported that studies have shown intelligence solutions have not been all that popular among manufacturers and affirmed that this is somewhat of a strange conundrum. According to the news provider, advanced software comes with the promise of improving ERP integration, supply chain intelligence and content management at large, which can give these firms a more accurate and timely perspective on the ebb and flow of operations.
When it comes to leading any organization, intelligence is what generally separates the winners from the losers in various markets, and automated tools that bolster knowledge of real-time events and needs represent the path forward in this regard. The source affirmed that visual data discovery tools, as well as mobile-oriented automation software that can enhance access to information – notably intelligence files – can have a significantly positive impact on businesses.
At the end of the day, decision-makers must be the ones to spearhead the provisioning process for these solutions, and doing so can help them take their manufacturing operations to the next level of performance.
The lean angle
Manufacturers are also widely reliant upon lean management strategies, which are characterized by the identification and eradication of all waste. With reporting analytics software in place, recognition of waste and insights that guide the decision-making process back into the right direction will be far more easily handled, especially over time.
Additionally, eliminating data entry and other menial tasks can reduce inefficiencies in other areas of management. Regardless of which industry a firm might be competing in, reporting analytics is becoming more of a requirement than an option to excel.
