2023 Manufacturing Trends: How They’ll Affect Automated Machining Systems
It’s important for manufacturing to stay on top of trends in the industry so they can take advantage of developing opportunities and better adapt to circumstances. We broke down a few of the top 2023 manufacturing trends on the horizon from the National Association of Manufacturers’ (NAM) list and will explain how they’ll affect automated machining systems and manufacturers like you.
Investing in Advanced Productivity-Enhancing Technologies
Artificial intelligence is making its way into many industries including manufacturing. More and more manufacturers are investing in artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies to support productivity efforts. New technologies can reduce costs and downtime, increase efficiency, improve quality and bring insight into the supply chain.
Supply Chain Challenges Continue
Now is the perfect time for AI and other innovative technologies that will bring insight into the supply chain as shortages and other issues are predicted to continue. According to NAM, “As manufacturers face long lead times, increased costs and a scarcity of raw materials, they are taking steps to boost supply chain resilience through reshoring, cybersecurity, increased supplier pools and more.” Supply chain issues will continue to affect manufacturers in several ways including:
- Waves of delays, shortages, cost increases, port gridlocks and other disruptions.
- The need for semiconductors outweighing supply, increasing demand for more U.S. based creation.
- Reshoring, which is becoming a popular supply chain resilience strategy.
- Cyber breaches that have the potential to cause substantial financial harm to your business.
The Labor Crisis Drags On
There seems to be no end in sight for the labor crisis. Many factors have caused the shortage like retirement, outdated perception of the industry, unclear roles as a result of digitization, outdated recruitment practices and of course COVID-19. A few efforts to combat the shortage are training, technology, enhanced benefits, competitive pay, improved company culture and untapped talent pools. Some things you can do to combat the shortage are:
- Engaging in efforts to improve perceptions of modern manufacturing.
- Upskilling and cross-training your existing workforce.
- Creating an inclusive culture where all are encouraged to contribute and share ideas.
A Focus on Cybersecurity
Although they’ve decreased slightly, ransomware attacks and other cybersecurity breaches are still prevalent and it’s important that you stay vigilant. These looming threats have turned cyber insurance into a must have not only to protect your business but to prove you are a reliable partner to customers and other stakeholders. Some steps you can take to reduce risk include:
- Proactive monitoring.
- Employee training on ransomware, phishing attacks and wire fraud.
- Network segmentation.
A Rise in Sustainability Efforts
Taking on sustainability practices does more for your business than just presenting you as good citizens. Setting goals to reduce carbon emissions will prolong the life of your business due to finite resources. Not only should you consider sustainable production methods but you should be considering the environmental impact of your products. If you’re in the tech and electronic industry, it is worth looking into ways to extend the life cycle of your products and provide greener solutions. Additionally, employees like to know their company is doing right by the environment.
Work With an Innovative Automated Machining Systems Partner Like AMS
AMS is committed to remaining innovative and keeping up with the latest trends and technologies so we can help your business stay competitive. We are well-versed in automation and robotics for manufacturing and would be happy to discuss how they can help you meet your goals for your manufacturing business. Book a meeting with us today.
