No matter your industry or business, the current COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly caused major disruptions in your ability to offer your products and services.

Perhaps one of the most affected sectors is manufacturing. Because manufacturing plants rely on onsite production, there’s not much wiggle room for them to implement remote work policies or alter regular work operations without closing down the plant altogether. 

Additionally, companies in the manufacturing sector are often considered essential in order to keep on top of supply chains and produce much-needed goods, such as medical equipment and resources, grocery store items, and more.

But as we take a closer look at the manufacturing industry and how it’s been affected, we also discover that there are solutions for manufacturers to continue production while also limiting the need for onsite staff or unhealthy working conditions.

How Have Manufacturing Businesses Been Affected?

So far, figures show that millions of manufacturing workers had found themselves without employment at this difficult time. While the official numbers will not be known for quite some time, it is estimated that around 53% of manufacturers globally, expect a significant change to their operations due to the current outbreak.

It may not be known at this moment in time just how many manufacturing companies have had to reduce their personnel. Still, we do know that the number is climbing daily, and this is leaving manufacturing operations to rely heavily on technology for production assistance.

What Technology Is Being Used?

Technology has been at the forefront of manufacturing operations for many years. Still, it is only over the past decade or so has there been a sudden influx of Smart technology that has enabled manufacturers to reduce their workforce and become more technology-reliant.

But smart manufacturing, while popular, is still under-utilized. Considering the current circumstances, it can be just the resource manufacturers need to continue efficient production.

 Smart manufacturing technology works by using the machinery or personnel to monitor the production process. While it may sound simple, this incredible technology can improve production lines, reduce error rates, and use advanced data analytics to identify ways for a company to automate its operations. 

At challenging times like this, Smart manufacturing technology can be the difference between your manufacturing company being able to continue production or not. Even long after this pandemic is over, you will still have a need for technology-driven manufacturing to cope with the expanding demands for rapid production.

Technology Resources That Are Benefitting Manufacturing Companies

Some of the most valuable smart technology resources in manufacturing currently include 3D printing, machine learning, big data analytics, and advanced Andon systems. Advanced Andon systems are particularly beneficial currently as they facilitate production floor communication with smart touch workstation screens and even offer real-time reporting via dashboard visuals.

In fact, VersaCall’s advanced Andon system lead to an annual cost savings of over $500,000, vast reductions in downtime, and, most importantly, an increase in output. So, when it comes to smart manufacturing technology that can help you perform when times get toughest, advanced Andon systems should be a go-to for manufacturing plants nationwide.

As your company considers implementing smart technology to better adapt to the challenges presented by the current global pandemic, you can maintain and even increase production rates while working with a limited onsite staff. Though it is certainly not an easy time for most industries including the manufacturing sector, the latest technology innovations can have a significant impact for the better in keeping your company afloat.