Modern manufacturing requires dual expertise that combines traditional manufacturing knowledge with digital technology skills. This "bilingual" approach combines manufacturing production experience with knowledge of digital technologies to implement smart manufacturing into operations. Success requires a deep understanding of manufacturing processes and the ability to leverage data to optimize operations.
The bilingual mentality focuses on solving practical problems rather than implementing technology for its own sake. Manufacturers have seen the most success with real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance technologies, which have helped them remain competitive in an increasingly digital industry. But there are still barriers to adoption.
Smart technologies often require IT expertise not traditionally found on manufacturing production lines or shops floors. These bilingual experts are necessary to help companies bridge the gap between traditional and digital manufacturing technologies.
Rather than introducing a radical shift, adopting smart manufacturing technologies represents more of an evolution for manufacturers. Industry terms like "feedback control" and "physical process control" have become known as data science. Utilizing this bilingual approach, manufacturers can successfully adopt new smart technologies and implement unprecedented improvements in their operations.