How many digital transformation strategies will ever extend beyond the boardroom? What, in effect, do they really entail? Digital transformation is being merged with the Internet of Things (IoT), Machine Learning, even Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create an unmanageable, unfocused concept of ‘doing things better’ without addressing the fundamental, underpinning essence of that change – the data.
Critical Issues: Manufacturing/Supply Chain
Critical issues are thought provoking articles relating to strategy, legislation, technology, best practice and some of the most challenging business topics in the world of manufacturing and supply chain information technology. The articles in this section have been contributed by leading vendors, industry leaders, research analysts, trade associations and consultancies and cover a variety of topics relating to the manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, transportation and distribution marketplace across Europe. They look at market trends, improvements in technology and some thought provoking comment on all aspects of optimising and improving efficiencies throughout the supply chain from raw material to finished product.
Other important topics covered in this section concern Health and Safety in Logistics with articles from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE).Taxation, government policy, climate change, recruitment and training schemes are all covered, as well as educational opportunities at various UK logistics educational facilities such at Cranfield University.
94% of UK shoppers will walk from brands if they don’t agree with their response to COVID-19, Braze survey reveals
Aug 18, 2020
Almost all (94%) UK shoppers warn they’d switch from a brand or company if they didn’t agree with their response to employees or customers during the pandemic, new research from customer engagement platform Braze reveals.
Brits invest in high quality desk equipment as they gear up for permanent remote working
Aug 12, 2020
The impact of the lockdown on the livelihoods of Brits continues to be felt across the board, with many setting up a permanent office at home as they prepare to work remotely for longer, according to new data from commerce experience firm Bloomreach.
InfinityQS’ Global Client Survey shows positive upturn in manufacturing in the wake of COVID-19
Aug 12, 2020
Green shoots of recovery are emerging within the manufacturing sector, as evident in new findings from InfinityQS’ 2020 Global Client Survey. The results show a positive upturn in the industry, with nearly 74% of respondents reporting that they are optimistic toward the future.
Retailers must prioritise secure and diverse payments for eCommerce success, says Kooomo
Aug 11, 2020
As the impact of COVID-19 continues to drive consumers and merchants online, there is a growing need for retailers to focus on securing and diversifying the existing digital payment methods of their online stores to ensure the checkout process is as safe and frictionless as possible.
How electronic security can enhance workplace safety during the pandemic
Aug 10, 2020
By Matthew Marriott, General Manager – UK, Ireland and Portugal, Stanley Security
If you are reviewing your safety measures to protect staff from COVID-19, no doubt you will already have put in place the more basic measures, such as extra cleaning, sanitation stations, 2m distance markings etc.
Rugged technology plays pivotal role in the future of manufacturing
Aug 06, 2020
Samsung Electronics UK Ltd. has revealed the results of a multi-industry research study into the use of rugged technology, looking at key benefits such as productivity and cost saving, resulting in more than nine out of ten (92%) manufacturing professionals who have experienced these first-hand, keen to invest in more.
The Internet of Robotic Things: How IoT and robotics are evolving to benefit the supply chain
Aug 05, 2020
The Internet of Robotic Things (IoRT) is a rapidly evolving technology. In just a few decades, industrial robots have become commonplace in factory settings across the world, and they only continue to gain popularity for their productivity and profitability.
Supply Chain Resilience Report 2020 released
Aug 05, 2020
According to the Supply Chain Resilience Report 2020 from 3D Hubs, cybersecurity issues have affected less than 10% of firms over the past 10 years, compared with 60% that have suffered directly as a result of COVID-19 disruption.
Labelmaster survey examines impact of COVID-19 on hazmat supply chain
Aug 04, 2020
Labelmaster, the provider of products, services and technology for the safe and compliant transport of dangerous goods (DG) and hazardous materials (hazmat), has announced the results of its fifth annual 2020 Global Dangerous Goods Confidence Outlook.
Manufacturing Critical Issues
The manufacturing industry is facing a number of critical issues, including:
- Supply chain disruptions. The COVID-19 pandemic and geo-political tensions/war has caused widespread disruption to global supply chains, and this is having a significant impact on manufacturing. Manufacturers are struggling to get the raw materials and components they need to produce their products, and this is leading to shortages and delays.
- Labour shortage. The manufacturing industry is facing a labor shortage, as there are not enough skilled workers available to fill open positions. This is due to a number of factors, including the aging workforce, the decline of manufacturing in some countries, and the lack of educational opportunities in STEM fields.
- Rising costs. The cost of manufacturing is rising, due to factors such as the rising cost of raw materials, energy, and transportation. This is putting pressure on manufacturers' margins and making it difficult for them to compete.
- Technology adoption. The manufacturing industry is facing the challenge of adopting new technologies, such as automation and artificial intelligence. These technologies can help manufacturers to improve efficiency and productivity, but they can also be expensive and disruptive to implement.
- Environmental regulations. Manufacturers are facing increasing environmental regulations, which are forcing them to change their production processes. This can be costly and time-consuming, but it is essential for manufacturers to comply with these regulations in order to remain competitive.
Supply Chain Critical Issues
The global supply chain has been facing a number of critical issues in recent years, including
- Labour shortages: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to labor shortages in many industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and warehousing. This has made it difficult to find and retain workers, which has led to delays and disruptions in the supply chain.
- Equipment shortages: The global supply chain is also facing shortages of equipment, such as containers, trucks, and ships. This is due to a number of factors, including the pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and increased demand for goods.
- Port congestion: Port congestion has been a major issue in recent years, as ships have been waiting for days or even weeks to unload their cargo. This is due to a number of factors, including increased demand, labor shortages, and weather events.
- Demand volatility: Demand for goods has been volatile in recent years, as consumers have shifted their spending habits due to the pandemic. This has made it difficult for businesses to forecast demand and manage their supply chains accordingly.
- Natural disasters: Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes, can also disrupt the supply chain. These events can damage infrastructure, disrupt transportation, and destroy inventory.
