(DEARBORN, Mich.) — Today, SME released the first of three smart manufacturing reports to help manufacturers consider, evaluate and execute strategies to become strong competitors as the industry shifts to integrated and flexible advanced manufacturing technology and tools. Upcoming reports will provide a roadmap for manufacturers who want to adopt these practices, outlining the right technologies and solutions, and how to recruit and train a “smart” workforce.

The first of the three reports, “Smart Manufacturing: A Competitive Necessity,” is available now to download. This report discusses the necessity and advantages of moving to a smart facility to survive in our current competitive environment. It suggests first steps to embrace this opportunity to disrupt business as usual and drive productivity, quality and profitability. 

“A smart technology revolution is taking place in manufacturing and SME is here to assist in the implementation,” said Debbie Holton, vice president of events and industry strategy, SME. “While still early in the adoption stage, companies are starting to recognize that operations pain points can be alleviated through technology — and the integration of that technology — by embracing smart manufacturing.”

While only three percent of companies are ready for large-scale deployment, more than half (56 percent) are already in an experimentation phase. Fifty percent of organizations are also projected to lack sufficient artificial intelligence (AI) and data literacy skills to achieve business value by 2020. Adopting these technologies may seem daunting, but it is the only option for manufacturers intent on future growth and innovation. Success by early adopters demonstrates that IIoT technologies add value for facility managers, helping them move beyond data collection to smart manufacturing.

Global competition demands companies join this digital transformation or be left behind.

About SME

SME connects manufacturing professionals, academia and communities, sharing knowledge and resources to build inspired, educated and prosperous manufacturers and enterprises. With more than 85 years of experience and expertise in events, media, membership, training and development, and also through an education foundation, SME is committed to promoting manufacturing technology, developing a skilled workforce and attracting future generations to advance manufacturing. Learn more at sme.org, follow @SME_MFG on Twitter or facebook.com/SMEmfg. 

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If you have questions about the press release or need additional information, please contact SME Public Relations at communications@sme.org.