Manufacturing is in an era of transformation. The internet of things, artificial intelligence and big data analytics have changed the way work is organized. And technology like 3D printing, cyber-physical systems and quantum computing have changed how products are manufactured. Demand created availability for tech to be scaled for production processes. IT has found its way to the shop floor. In the face of change teams sometimes struggle to transition effectively. Here is our how to guide for leading your production team through industry 4.0.
What is Industry 4.0?
Industry 4.0(i4.0) is the marriage of manufacturing automation processes with modern smart technology capabilities. In essence, industry 4.0 is a reorganization of traditional manufacturing workflows by incorporating digital innovation. The advantages of adding smart technology to your production process is in greater efficiency, increased capability, and increased profitability. It is estimated that the total market for i4.0 will exceed $4 trillion this year.
5 Steps to Guide Your Team Through Technological Change
What wont’ change in your production cycle is the relationship between your workers and the machines they work with. To foster a smooth transition to technologically advanced work processes, follow these steps.
1. Prioritize Your Needs
With so much available, it can be overwhelming to determine where to start. Strategize your needs before adopting new tech. Identify which processes are already pretty efficient and those that could use some attention. Selective implementation at this stage will allow for greater transparency into your team and ensure you are achieving the greatest benefit.
2. Inform Your Team
Before rollout, introduce your team to the upcoming changes. Allow time for questions and introduce the schedule with rollout dates. Keeping staff informed at all major stages will minimize their discomfort with change.
3. Training, Training
Before rollout and immediately following, train all staff that will work with the new technology on the capabilities and your expectations for use. Proper training improves morale and reduces change anxiety. In the past, manufacturing change meant layoffs, address these concerns and outline the training schedule in the information stage. Increase expertise by hiring workers with previous experience and training.
4. ID Tech Team Leads
Some people love technology and are excited to try new ways of doing things. Identify these technological champions on your team and apply their enthusiasm as tech team leads. This group can be your go-to experts for co-workers, and even management teams as they will have daily familiarity with your new equipment. Or, use a recruiter to attract technical expertise.
5. Measure and Review Your Program
How do you know if it’s working? Measure production and review your program after full implementation. You may identify new needs, unintended benefits, or unforeseen talent within your team.
Tech is a vital part of modern manufacturing. In fact, technology is changing manufacturing in all levels of production and planning. Adopting strategic digital upgrades allow you to reap the benefits of a rapidly growing industry. Maintaining a workforce that can adapt and properly utilize industry 4.0 equipment is key to remaining competitive. Strom Minnesota is here to connect you with trained staff ready to meet new industry 4.0 challenges and opportunities.
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Download Our BrochureStrom Minnesota is an engineering and technical recruitment agency that specializes in high-skilled job candidates for highly technical positions. We facilitate contract employment, project staffing, temp-to-perm and direct hire opportunities. Industries served include IT, engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and manufacturing. We are affiliated with Strom Engineering, a national staffing and recruitment agency.
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