3 Ways COVID-19 Will Change Manufacturing

By Renee Rizzo | September 17, 2020

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What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger and that’s especially true this year. Many manufacturers have been able to bounce back and are on their way to being more resilient than ever. But what exactly has the pandemic done to cause manufacturers to start transforming their facilities? And what will the future of manufacturing look like after the COVID-19 dust has settled?

  1. Supply chain transparency — The pandemic has shown manufacturers that it’s more important than ever to have full transparency of their supply chains. There’s been a sharp decline in business activity in some sectors, like automotive, and growth in others, like warehouse and logistics. This variability makes it even more crucial to have visibility. One way to do this is by implementing machine monitoring technology. From machine-run-time to real-time inventory data, manufacturers will have immediate data to track and measure to quickly make informed decisions.

    2. Prepare for risks — It’s good to know the state of your business such as production levels and what shape your equipment is in. Outside influences and unknowns should also be taken into consideration, and this year has shown us just how crucial it is to conduct a thorough risk analysis to prepare for both the knowns and unknowns. Also, the more manufacturers plan for potential issues, the more time they’ll have to focus on bigger initiatives to really propel business forward.

    3. More remote workers — All industries are realizing the value that remote work offers. Production levels are proving to be just as effective from a home office, and in some cases, remote employees are putting in more time and getting more work done. Rather than visiting a plant, virtual work meetings and gathering machine data remotely will become the norm. Overall, with the appeal of less overhead and travel expenses, employers are opting for remote work when it’s an option.

As disruptive as 2020 has been, it’s revealed opportunities that manufacturers weren’t yet focusing on. Real-time data, comprehensive risk plans, virtual technology, and more are allowing manufacturers to not only weather the storm but come out on the other side stronger than ever.

About the Author

Renee Rizzo

Renee Rizzo is a print and digital copywriter for FMA. Prior to FMA, Renee worked for an advertising agency in a Chicago suburb and began her copywriting career at CDW (Computer Discount Warehouse). Learn more about Renee on her professional website or on LinkedIn.

Read more by Renee Rizzo

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