Itac, experts in improving manufacturing processes for their clients explain;
Industry 4.0 is the integration of manufacturing automation and data exchange, to create what has been dubbed as a “smart factory.” These factories will be controlled by a virtual production line that runs systems, monitors, and completes their physical processes. These systems will communicate in real time, whether that means a customer tracking the progress of his (or her) order’s production, or a company ensuring the quality of its operations. Simply put, connected software systems will run our physical manufacturing automatically.
Consumers care more about the integrity of their products than ever before. This means supply chains need to embrace modern manufacturing processes such as moving away from the traditional factory structure and embracing new technologies to offer full visibility to their clients. Industry drivers are already riding this wave of “smart-factory” innovation, implementing advanced analytical software, automated services and short turnarounds, with high precision.
Bottom line;
Envision a future where physical products can automatically be manufactured with just a few clicks of a button. An entrepreneur can conceive an idea, design it and have it made by systems which make critical production decisions for that founder. This is the vision of Industry 4.0 and the factory of the future.
This of course, could mean significant financial investment is required in order to implement the changes needed to match modern demand. Unfortunately, supply chains not on board with the changes are going to be left behind by the competition.
With that many systems required now in a modern supply chain, it would be impossible to list them all. If you are interested in learning more, the Intelligence 4.0 range of learning from IoSCM provides expert insight into the technological advancements that have shaped the modern industry.