How small manufacturers can implement digital technologies

Industrial digitalisation offers huge benefits to manufacturers — not only could it increase profits within a company, but

also improve productivity by 25 per cent. However, the cost, risk, complexity and lack of applicable digital skills make it

hard for smaller manufacturers to implement this revolutionary change. So, how can small manufacturing companies keep

up with the competition?

With many businesses feeling the strain of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic instability over the last

couple of years, it has become clear that those that can adapt and respond quickly to changes are the ones with tools and

processes that are flexible to change, digital tools offer that flexibility.

There are many tips on how small manufacturers can overcome these obstacles, such as starting small and focusing on the

small changes the business can make instead of the large, expensive and burdensome projects that can take years to make

a profit. For example, companies can buy low cost cobots like the Automata six-axis cobot arm for £5,000 or they can retrofit

sensors on legacy equipment to keep costs lower. Implementing many small digital changes can have the impact of one large

change without the added challenges that come with larger projects, such as integration issues, added training and extra maintenance.

The solution on a shoestring

Digital manufacturing on a shoestring is said to be a low risk, low-cost approach to digital solutions. To create this programme,

McFarlane's team surveyed and classified low-cost technologies that they then organized into a set of 59 digital solution areas

that can be reused, adapted and combined.

Some of the solutions in this programme include consumer-grade microcomputers, like the Raspberry Pi, and low-cost sensors.

These low-cost alternatives can be placed in an industrial-proof casing, protecting them from the factory environment in a cheaper

way. Using this programme, 14 industry partners have successfully started or completed a pilot with a Shoestring solution, giving

overwhelmingly positive feedback.

Although industrial digitalisation may be difficult for small businesses to implement, it is not impossible. With helpful tips and

low-cost alternatives available, it is time for all manufacturing companies to move into industry 4.0.

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