In the manufacturing industry, trends are constantly emerging and evolving. Manufacturing has made significant advances from machine-reliant assembly lines to highly automated factories over the last several years. As we look ahead, there are several key trends to watch.
Smart factory adoption
One of the biggest is the continued rise of smart factories. This trend involves fully implementing smart equipment that leverages data and analytics to improve efficiency, reduce operating costs and provide proactive maintenance.
To transition to a smart factory, companies must have cloud-powered smart capabilities, global template-based manufacturing execution systems (MES), the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) capabilities, operational technology and information technology integration, and operational security. 
A smart factory can make operations more cost-efficient, resulting in predictable inventory requirements and reduced process and operations variability. This creates a lean design, as they do not require heavy investment in machinery and personnel.
In addition to the IIoT, automation, artificial intelligence, machine learning and MES-based deployment, manufacturers can optimize their production processes to self-configure operations, correct performance issues and minimize labor.
Sustainability and carbon neutrality
Another trend in manufacturing to watch is the increased focus on sustainability and carbon neutrality. Environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues are still becoming a top priority for manufacturers, with more commercial customers requiring sustainable processes and
carbon-neutral practices.
Unfortunately, there still needs to be more precise standards measuring ESG. There have not been common standards or consistent methodologies for collecting verifiable and reliable data, which has caused confusion and disagreement. However, the International Sustainability Standards Board is aligning ESG ratings and establishing a global standard for ESG disclosures.
Supply chain reassessment
Transportation, production and sourcing issues will continue to create challenges. Supply chain leaders will be concerned about the lack of reliable transportation, the frequency of part and product shortages, the uncertainty in customer demand and the logistical challenges in new supply chain design
and planning.
Supply chain reassessment will continue to be a prominent trend as facilities seek ways to add flexibility and reliability while retaining value. Though data-driven inventory management is a highly effective way to identify previously unknown supply chain efficiencies, disruption and uncertainty will persist.
This will only further increase technological investments. Digital solutions are crucial to ensuring product availability and customer experience remain intact. While the risk is reduced, not all operations can be entirely digitized.
Safety and health measures
With little surprise, employee safety and health remain a top priority, with many companies implementing ways to monitor and maintain employee health. A significant change in 2022 was the expansion of OSHA's Severe Violator Enforcement Program. The program is in place to strengthen enforcement and improve compliance with workplace safety standards. The changes focus on employers who continue to expose workers to severe dangers. Later in the year, OSHA placed more employers in the program for willful or repeat safety violations.
More virtual processes
Virtual processes, including digital twins, machine learning, artificial intelligence, augmented reality and virtual reality will become more prominent in 2023. This will enable capabilities like remote monitoring, equipment servicing and equipment operation. In addition, this technology leads to the possible development of "dark factories.”
What was once a rare choice is now becoming mainstream. Most manufacturers are starting to use machine learning to optimize their facilities, as digital solutions can help minimize resource consumption and produce more output with the same energy.
In conclusion, the manufacturing industry constantly evolves, and keeping up with the latest trends is essential for success. By following these trends and adapting to changing market conditions, manufacturers can stay ahead of the curve and achieve continued success in the years to come.
Learn more about the trends manufacturers should be watching:
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