The Difference the Right IT Solutions for Manufacturing Can Make in Your Business

IT solutions for manufacturing are the collection of various software applications, programs, and IT services companies need to run their business. The word “solutions” is used because these programs are vital for addressing problems or particular challenges within the organization, such as a need for technical support or enhanced cybersecurity.

The challenge for companies is understanding what IT solutions are available and which ones are most helpful for running their own business. We’ve compiled this list of IT solutions focused specifically on manufacturing to provide a better snapshot of what’s available.

Key Points:

• IT solutions are a vital part of running a successful manufacturing business.
• There are a wide range of IT solutions available for manufacturing, from cybersecurity upgrades to managing complex projects.
• While IT solutions do require an investment, the potential savings from increases productivity and efficiency can far outweigh the cost.

Understanding IT Solutions for Manufacturing

Technology changes so rapidly it’s hard to keep up with the latest offerings, but IT solutions are a necessary component of running a business — especially for manufacturing. Without them, the company is vulnerable to cyber attacks, production downtime, and a host of other issues. Where does a company even start?

What Kind of IT Solutions Do Manufacturing Companies Need?

As mentioned, there are a variety of IT solutions available to meet certain company needs, but manufacturers have their own unique requirements. While no IT solution is off the table, manufacturers mostly benefit from:

• Proactive IT management: This IT solution detects issues and responds before an incident creates any downtime. It’s highly responsive with the goal of less downtime, higher productivity, and better management of unplanned downtime. 
• Cybersecurity support: Every company is vulnerable to cyber attacks, but for manufacturers, they face a greater challenge because often their IT solutions aren’t as up-to-date as needed to avoid the devastating effects of an attack. IT security support offers solutions such as data leak prevention, data theft prevention, and intrusion detection to name a few.
• Project support: Manufacturing relies on numerous simultaneous projects and IT solutions focused on project support can jump in and offer additional, in-depth support and solutions for special projects. Projects might include moving the manufacturing company to a new location or installing a new Microsoft program, for example.

Why Are IT Solutions Vital for Manufacturing Businesses?

Manufacturing is a complex, intricate business that relies heavily on multiple processes at once. IT solutions can help streamline these processes so everything runs more efficiently and smoothly. When multiple aspects of manufacturing, such as inventory management, production planning, and supply chain management operate efficiently, it reduces the risk of errors.

IT solutions are crucial for making data-driven decisions in real-time. This means you can respond to market demands quicker and stay competitive in today’s fast-paced environment. IT solutions are an absolute must for any manufacturer that needs to meet customer expectations more effectively, while transitioning to a modern digital era.

Where Can You Find IT Solutions for the Manufacturing Industry?

You can find IT solutions specifically for the manufacturing industry in several places. Technology vendors offer a wide range of software and hardware solutions tailored to the unique needs of manufacturers. Industry conferences and trade shows are a fantastic way to network with these vendors while exploring the latest and greatest in IT solutions.

Another option is through a consultant or referral. There are IT consultants available that add insight and recommend reliable vendors and realistic solutions based on the manufacturers goals and business needs.

Top 20 Types of IT Solutions for Manufacturing

With technology needs increasing by the day, more manufacturers rely on IT solutions for a variety of purposes. Here is a list of the most common solutions and what problems they address.

1. Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) 

MES is used in manufacturing to streamline the production processes, track real-time production status, while optimizing workflows. It helps improve productivity and quality while reducing operational costs — a must for any manufacturer. 

2. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)

ERP is used in manufacturing to bring together various business processes, including inventory management, finance, and human resources, so the manufacturer has a unified platform for data management, decision-making, and resource allocation.

3. Project Management Software

Project management software in manufacturing is vital for planning, executing, and monitoring projects efficiently. It also makes it possible for teams to collaborate effectively, stay on schedule, and manage resources and budgets.

4. Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)

Any manufacturer that needs to manage the entire lifecycle of a product, from design to disposal, needs PLM. Additionally, it facilitates collaboration among different departments, which is a common challenge with manufacturing processes. 

5. Computer-Aided Design (CAD)

Manufacturers can benefit from CAD because this particular IT solution creates detailed digital designs and models of products while allowing engineers and designers to visualize concepts, simulate functionality, and optimize designs before an actual physical production. The result is a more efficient use of time and money since you possibly reduce the number of iterations of a product. 

6. Supply Chain Management (SCM)

SCM IT solutions in manufacturing are critical because they optimize the end-to-end supply chain processes. From raw material procurement to product delivery, it also ensures efficient inventory management, demand forecasting, and distribution, which not only impact the manufacturer’s bottom line, but also the customer experience.

7. Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

WMS is used in manufacturing to automate and optimize warehouse operations. It’s responsible for essential tasks such as inventory tracking, order fulfillment, and shipping. This leads to improved inventory accuracy and faster order processing, which benefits both the company and the customer.

8. Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

CRM in manufacturing helps manage numerous customer interactions, sales leads, and after-sales support with the goal of enhancing customer satisfaction, loyalty, and long-term business relationships. Not only does it improve overall customer service, it helps the sales team close deals faster, which leads to greater revenue potential.

9. Advanced Analytics and Business Intelligence (BI)

BI is a necessary component for manufacturing because it improves overall strategy and execution. Advanced analytics and BI solutions are often used in manufacturing to analyze production data, optimize multiple processes, while gaining actionable insights to make more informed, data-driven decisions.

10. Remote Monitoring Systems

Think of remote monitoring systems as the extra set of eyes needed for each of the various processes used in manufacturing.  These systems offer real-time monitoring of equipment, processes and production lines, which means more proactive maintenance. Efficient maintenance leads to minimal downtime and improved equipment efficiency, which positively impacts the bottom line.

11. Internet of Things (IoT) Solutions

IoT solutions are used in manufacturing to connect and collect data from multiple devices and sensors. This is needed for predictive maintenance, process automation, and enhanced visibility across the entire manufacturing ecosystem. It’s also another way to deliver real-time data to a business, further enhancing data-driven decision-making.

12. Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

Manufacturers use RPA to automate repetitive tasks, such as data entry and processing. With this automation comes increased operational efficiency, a reduction in errors, and frees up valuable human resources so they can focus on more strategic activities.

13. Cybersecurity Solutions

One of the most indispensable solutions a manufacturing company needs is sound cybersecurity solutions. These solutions safeguard critical data, systems, and intellectual property from the onslaught of cyber threats. If you can avoid these massive threats, then it ensures your business can keep running and protect against potential disruptions.

14. Application Development and Management

Application development and management services are used in manufacturing to create custom software solutions and maintain existing applications. This helps address specific operational needs and enhance process efficiency, while allowing the manufacturer to innovate and reduce costs when they bring a product to market. 

15. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Systems

There are times you need a human voice to work with, versus a machine or software. In these cases, VoIP systems in manufacturing offer cost-effective communication through internet-based voice and video calls. The teams get their seamless collaboration while reducing overall communication expenses.

16. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

Manufacturers need VR and AR technologies for design visualization, employee training, and maintenance support. It fosters a more engaging, immersive experience for the employees or customers, so they can get a realistic view of the outcome.

17. Managed Network Services

Managed network services in manufacturing makes it possible to have a reliable and secure network infrastructure,smooth data communication between different manufacturing locations, and the ability to support multiple IT solutions. It makes a manufacturer’s IT infrastructure as robust as possible, which helps both employees and customers. 

18. Public and Private Cloud Hosting

Manufacturers may want to consider having both public and private cloud hosting services.This provides an optimal combination of the option to host applications and data, scale as the business grows, remain flexible, and stay within budget all while ensuring data security and compliance.

19. Data Storage and Backup 

Manufacturers have to use data storage and backup solutions so they can store and protect millions of critical points of data and maintain the data integrity. This is also highly important for disaster recovery readiness. It also means you have a complete copy of your business data no matter what type of data loss has occurred.

20. IT Consulting Services

The amount of IT solutions available is overwhelming. However, IT consulting services in manufacturing can provide expert guidance for implementing and optimizing IT solutions, so it doesn’t have to be such a mind-boggling task. Ultimately, these consulting services offer manufacturers a chance to make informed technology decisions based on their business goals.

How IT Solutions Can Help Manufacturing Companies

There’s no question today’s manufacturers face a wide range of challenges. However, the right IT solution helps companies face these challenges head on, even getting ahead of them in some cases. IT solutions offer benefits such as:

• Streamline production processes: Automate and optimize production workflows, reduce manual tasks and improve overall efficiency.
• Enhance supply chain management: Creates better coordination, visibility, and optimization of all the various supply chain activities, which reduces lead times, lower costs, and improves inventory management.
• Enable data-driven decision-making: The real-time data analytics provided by the software combined with the business intelligence, empowers manufacturers to make informed decisions based on the right insights and trends.
• Facilitate product design and development: IT solutions like CAD and PLM make it possible for faster and more efficient product design iterations, which means quicker time-to-market along with enhanced innovation.
• Implement automation and robotics: When you implement automation and robotic systems, it boosts production speed, enhances greater precision in processes, and is more cost-effective.
• Improve quality control: When you use IT solutions for quality control, it brings in rigorous quality control processes so your company’s products meet industry standards and customer expectations.
• Provide cybersecurity: Cybersecurity is becoming more of a priority and enhanced cybersecurity measures protect manufacturing companies from cyber threats, while safeguarding and sensitive data and intellectual property.
• Ensure compliance with regulations: IT solutions assist in maintaining regulatory compliance by tracking and documenting processes, product data, and quality standards. When your company is more compliant, it reduces the risk of penalties and legal issues.
• Bolster collaboration and communication: The right solutions promote seamless collaboration among multiple teams, suppliers, and partners, which increases cross-functional efficiency.
• Strengthen customer relationship management: When the customer is the number one focus, IT solutions aid in managing customer interactions and data. This means manufacturing companies can provide personalized services, strengthen customer loyalty, and drive repeat business (and ultimately revenue).

How Much Do IT Solutions for Manufacturing Cost?

IT solutions can require a substantial investment from a manufacturing company. There are numerous costs involved and just as many factors that influence the overall cost. The software costs depend on the exact features needed, size of the business, industry. Plus you have to factor in how many people use it, the upfront costs, and training costs.

Can you use manufacturing loans to buy IT solutions?

A manufacturing business loan can most likely be used to cover upgrades in technology. It’s important to review the loan’s terms and fees, plus the qualification process, to determine if it’s the right choice for financing your IT solutions. 

How to Choose the Right IT Solutions for Your Manufacturing Company

With so many options available, how do you choose the right IT solution for your manufacturing business? Consider these steps for making the most informed decision.

• Define your business needs: You may not be able to solve all problems at once, but an IT solution can help you address some of the most pressing needs sooner. Clearly defining your company goals can help you pinpoint what solutions you need first.
• Create clear goals: You need clear objectives for each of these IT solutions. Is it to reduce downtime, improve productivity, or improve quality control? Lay out the metrics you’ll use to measure if the IT solution is doing its job for your company.
• Involve the key stakeholders: Bring in everyone from each department to ensure you have representation and each department’s perspective. This includes finance, operations, marketing, supply chain, and of course, IT. 
• Research the options: Whether your company researches the IT solutions on its own or hires an IT consultant, it’s important to have a basic understanding of the pros and cons of each solution, including how much it costs, how it can grow with your business, and possible concerns with integration.
• Analyze how it works with your current IT infrastructure: How easily will this IT solution integrate with what you already have? Find out as much as possible up front to avoid costly or complex challenges.
• Request demos: Live demos help your team see how easy (or difficult) it is to use the new solution. Asking the vendor to provide a live demo creates a more hands-on experience for everyone involved. 
• Evaluate vendor reputation and customer support: Research the reputation of the vendor and perhaps even ask for a referral from a similar business. Even more important, ask the vendor to spell out what the customer support looks like once you’ve agreed on implementation.
• Calculate the total cost of ownership: IT solutions are not cheap and you have to consider the total cost, not simply the initial fees. Find out what the implementation costs are, upfront costs, licensing fees, ongoing maintenance, and training costs to get a better understanding of the total cost