Some experts believe that we are entering a fourth revolution in the world of manufacturing. This fourth revolution is facilitated by technology: cloud computing, the Internet of Things, big data, AI and so on.  It’s an exciting time for manufacturing. New technology can help us envision a future of sustainable, socially conscious manufacturing that’s a far cry from the giant industrial complexes of the 18th and 19th centuries.

Supply chain management features prominently in this new world of big data and cloud technology. The potential adoption of certain technologies may make all the difference in the future between successful manufacturers and struggling ones.

Cloud Technology

Cloud technology impacts many aspects of personal and business life. That includes manufacturing and supply chain management, where companies are shifting their ERP systems to cloud-based technology.

Cloud technology is boosting supply chain management to new heights. Real-time data, synchronized with the rest of your company’s data, helps you manage every aspect of the supply chain with pinpoint accuracy. Real-time data also minimizes inefficiencies and helps you align resources to production needs.

ERP systems running on the cloud also facilitate collaboration. Because all systems interact, it’s difficult to maintain a siloed mentality. Instead, collaboration becomes easier throughout the company.

Cloud-based software such as SYSPRO ERP works on multiple devices and updates automatically.

SYSPRO ERP offers one consolidated cloud-based ERP solution that integrates core business functions into one software solution. Manufacturing, distribution, financial management, reporting and analysis are all at your fingertips. Access SYSPRO from any device to connect with a wealth of information about your business. It’s a complete, comprehensive ERP solution that integrates core business functions.

With over 37 years of experience behind the product, SYSPRO provides an exceptional ERP solution to your company.

Big Data and Analytics

Welcome to the new world of big data and analytics. There’s so much data available now to a business that it’s not a question of collecting data but how well you can analyze and store. Big data and its natural partner, analytics, are now part and parcel of the manufacturing world.

With the right data, you can analyze all facets of production and supply chain management to find ways to improve efficiencies, costs, and outputs. Data can be used to generate insights that were unavailable before the advent of big data and analytics.

But to use this data, you need the right systems and software to both harness it and analyze it. Good reports are also essential to using big data. Reports that include data visualization can transform how you use big data.

Robots - and Cobots?

You’re undoubtedly familiar with the term robot - but how about a cobot? A cobot is a sort of cross between a coworker and a robot. You see, robots are great for repetitive tasks but expensive to install. Cobots, on the other hand, are smaller, flexible robots that can work alongside people. Cobots are being used in warehouses now for pick, pack, and ship. They’re an interesting addition to the supply chain that shows the evolution of thought and application in the world of technology.

The Internet of Things

The Internet of Things (IoT) ties together people, processes, data, and “things” - objects - in an intricate web of interconnections that provides incredible data and insight into how objects are used. This interconnection is quietly transforming the entire supply chain.

Devices installed on pallets, for example, tie the simple object into your supply chain, providing data not just on its whereabouts but also on its condition. Full? Empty? It can tell your ERP system the entire story, relaying data that in the past would have to be manually collected and stored.

The IoT is already in use with delivery trucks, helping them to maintain temperatures for sensitive and perishable goods, avoid delays when delivering items, and maximizing gas mileage. Such intelligence will benefit the entire supply chain before long.

New Technology Means You Need an Expert IT Consultant: PositiveVision

If you’re ready to embrace the wondrous changes that technology brings to manufacturing and the supply chain, the IT consultants at PositiveVision can help you transform existing systems, implement new ones, and find ways to make current systems more efficient.

PositiveVision provides IT consulting and services to manufacturing and distribution companies. We can help your operations run more efficiently and provide you with the right tools to gather accurate and timely data. With the right data, you can better manage your business. Learn more on our website or contact us today.