Do I go with ProShop or NetSuite?
Will adding a cobot really make a difference?
Is the machine monitoring tool I’m considering compatible with the rest of my technology?
A million questions might come up when you’re finding and adopting new technologies. There are dozens of technologies out there that reduce costs and improve quality and throughput. And while certain tools can be transformative for manufacturers who embrace them, it’s still important to weigh out your options and determine precisely what your manufacturing company needs before buying the bright and shiny new tool.
We’ll walk you through some examples of technology solutions many of our members have benefited from and offer some advice that can guide you in the right direction. (Hint hint: your SoCal NTMA community can be a valuable resource!)
Examples of Effective Manufacturing Technology Solutions
Here are some common examples of technologies our members have invested in:
ERP Systems
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) integrates various processes into a single unified system to enhance efficiency, reduce errors, and offer real-time data for better decision-making. There are plenty of industry specific ERP systems on the market, such as ProShop and Fulcrum, among others.
Quality Assurance
Quality assurance is simultaneously a major priority and a serious bottleneck for many contract manufacturers. There are plenty of valuable pieces of equipment that accelerate inspection times and improve accuracy, like optical comparators from KEYENCE. In addition, quality management software improves transparency and collaboration across teams. We suggest checking out HighQA, which automates the quality planning, inspection, and reporting processes and collects real-time data to streamline workflows and reduce the opportunity for error.
Quoting Tools
There are a handful of software solutions that aim to streamline the estimation process, reduce errors, and accelerate response times to customer inquiries. This results in increased accuracy in quoting, higher conversion rates, and improved customer satisfaction. Paperless Parts offers intuitive 3D file analysis, automated quoting workflows, and seamless integration with existing systems. As a result, manufacturers can ensure precise quotes and save time on manual calculations, ultimately driving more business.
Machine Monitoring
Machine monitoring systems offer real-time insights into machine performance, reducing downtime and enabling proactive maintenance. Datanomix offers advanced analytics and user-friendly dashboards for actionable insights without requiring manual data entry. This tool provides automatic performance benchmarking, predictive maintenance alerts, and comprehensive reporting, helping manufacturers increase productivity.
Real-Time Data Collection
Manufacturers can benefit from real-time monitoring solutions that alert them of immediate issues and support their quality control processes. SensFlo is an example of a comprehensive solution that utilizes IoT sensors and AI-driven analytics to enable real-time data collection and integration from various sources, such as machine operations, energy consumption, and ERP systems. The system then analyzes this data to optimize production processes, reduce scrap, and predict machine failures.
Other Beneficial Technologies
While the above tools are the ones we hear about the most from precision machining companies, our members have benefited from other tools, including:
- Programming software
- Simulation technology
- Coordinate measuring machine (CMM) software
- Robots and cobots
- Cloud computing
Our Advice for Investing in Manufacturing Technology
Prioritize Your Biggest Challenges
Before investing in software and technology, it’s a smart idea to dive into what precise challenges you’re facing. Maybe you’re experiencing bottlenecks in the quality department, or maybe you’re quoting process moves so closely that you’ve lost bids. Figuring out areas of improvement is the best place to start.
Shop Around
Certain technologies can seriously improve your business’s day-to-day operations when used properly. But it’s important to consider that not every type of manufacturing technology may be the right choice for your business. When shopping around for software and technology, think strategically about which tools will move the needle for your company. Do your homework to determine what areas to prioritize based on your company’s needs.
Seek Advice from Your Peers, Not Just Tech Salespeople
What will yield the most honest conversation: a chat with your peer about a tool they’ve been using or a pitch from a sales professional trying to sell you on it? Talking through your goals for implementing this tool and any hesitation you may have with a trusted peer in your industry can be an eye-opening experience. Hearing the results they’ve experienced might be enough to convince you to buy, or finding out that the benefits they’ve experienced don’t necessarily align with your business goals could push you in a different direction. Lean into your Southern California manufacturing community to determine which tools have worked for your peers (and which have not).
Leverage your local SoCal NTMA Community
No matter what type of technology you’re considering or what stage you are at in your research, leveraging your industry network can be incredibly beneficial. Your peers in the SoCal manufacturing community have a wealth of experience and insights that can help you make informed decisions. Whether you’re looking into ERP systems, quality assurance tools, or cobots, their firsthand knowledge and honest feedback can guide you towards the most effective solutions for your company. Don’t hesitate to reach out, ask questions, and learn from the experiences of others—your community is a valuable resource ready to support you every step of the way.
Not a member? Connect with the SoCal NTMA team to find out how you can leverage our vibrant manufacturing network.
