Is Automation Part of Digital Transformation?

Much has been made in recent years about the need for businesses to undergo a digital transformation. Keeping up with all the most advanced technology has always been a critical differentiator no matter the industry, helping companies gain a competitive edge and offer better services to their customers. A major part of digital transformation initiatives is integrating automation into business processes, and it’s clear to see why once you understand all the benefits it can provide.

For the manufacturing sector, digital transformation strategies can deliver significant advantages in numerous aspects of their businesses. By partnering with an expert in digital transformation at the start of the journey, these companies can achieve the highest levels of performance and efficiency throughout their operations.

Understanding Automation in the Context of Digital Transformation

Most manufacturers are already a few steps ahead of other businesses when it comes to digital transformation. That’s because automation is nothing new for those in this sector. Robotic process automation is a key element of many manufacturing operations, thanks to the extensive advantages it provides. Robotic systems can assemble products without tiring or making mistakes, creating repeatable results that help boost customer satisfaction. By performing most tasks much faster than human workers can, robots also enhance the efficiency of production facilities.

But there’s more than one type of automation, and any successful digital transformation should take this into account. In addition to the assembly line, digital technology can be integrated into other areas of a business to automate processes and streamline operations even further.

Integrating Automation Everywhere

Beyond the production floor, manufacturers can realize the benefits of digitization in other ways. For example, they can achieve greater operational efficiency by automating certain business processes such as sending out orders for components or generating invoices to send to customers. With intelligent automation, manufacturers can reduce the workload on their office staff and ensure fewer errors are made.

Some of these processes can even be connected to the production floor through Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technology. For example, automated assembly stations can report back to the central dashboard when stock levels of a certain component are starting to run low. This can trigger an automated order being placed by the system so the new parts will arrive in time to prevent any interruptions in production.

Another key area where a digital transformation strategy can benefit manufacturers is in keeping equipment online for as long as possible. With predictive maintenance processes powered by advanced artificial intelligence analytics, technicians can receive automated alerts when a machine starts to behave unusually, giving them notice that it should be serviced. This can prevent unexpected failures and keep production flowing as expected.

How EOSYS Can Help

As a leading provider of systems integration services, EOSYS is the ideal partner for any manufacturing company looking to complete a digital transformation initiative. We have a team of qualified experts who are well-versed in all the latest technologies, including advanced Industry 4.0 and IIoT platforms.

Working with us means manufacturers can leverage our experience to ensure their process automation syncs seamlessly, whether it’s on the assembly line or in the front office. We provide the digital transformation knowledge and know-how to keep systems working together as effectively as possible. To learn more about our services and how they can lead to greater operational efficiency and higher product quality, reach out and speak to one of our knowledgeable experts today.