As more and more enterprises embrace mobile platforms and the applications that this revolution in computing is spawning, the route to success is littered with failure.
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.
Demand for IT security skills grows in line with adoption of cloud and mobile technologies
Aug 27, 2015
IT security professionals are set to be in huge demand for the rest of 2015, according to a new report from Robert Half Technology. Almost half (47%) of UK CIOs predict that they will appoint additional IT security personnel to their teams this year.
Big Data Analytics is poised to change the maintenance services models across the manufacturing sector
Aug 27, 2015
The advent of the Internet of Industrial Things (IoIT) has triggered an influx of technology-oriented services such as cybersecurity and advanced maintenance. This has dramatically widened business opportunities in the manufacturing services sector.
Is BYOD the beginning of the end for subsidised mobile phones?
Aug 27, 2015
Carriers and virtual carriers in most regions have experienced steady erosion in ARPU since 2010 according to analysts Strategy Analytics. Despite a collective US$700 billion investment in infrastructure over the past ten years, revenue growth has been almost flat since 2007.
Growth steady but exports drag - SME trends
Aug 20, 2015
Growth among smaller and medium-sized (SME) manufacturers remained positive in the three months to July, but exports dragged down overall performance, according the latest CBI SME Trends Survey.
IDTechEx Research: Progress with RFID in China
Aug 20, 2015
In the new report titled RFID in China 2015-2025, IDTechEx Research has identified over 150 Chinese companies supplying RFID and tracked how the industry in China will grow to become a US$4.3 billion opportunity in 2025.
Manufacturing growth remains steady but exports pressurised by stronger Sterling - CBI
Aug 05, 2015
Manufacturing growth continued in the three months to July, but exports are set to weaken, according to the latest CBI Quarterly Industrial Trends Survey.
Post-election confidence sees supply chain vacancies jump 26% year-on-year
Aug 05, 2015
The number of supply chain jobs advertised year-on-year in the UK in the second quarter of 2015 has increased by 26%, according to research from specialist recruiter Robert Walters.
Figures from the Robert Walters UK Jobs Index, which charts vacancy numbers posted to online platforms, has revealed that the demand for supply chain professionals grew most significantly in London with vacancies up 30% compared to the second quarter of 2014, with the overall number of vacancies up 6% over this period.
Brace yourselves for a surge in mobile printing, says Annodata
Jul 30, 2015
A survey carried out by the International Data Corporation (IDC) suggests that in spite of the business value that can be derived from mobile printing, support for it amongst businesses remains low.
Is online our favourite tipple?
Jul 30, 2015
By Becky Clark, CEO NetDespatch.
The Chancellor signalled further support for the wine and spirit industry with the announcement of a 2% cut in spirits duty and a freeze in duty for wine in this year's budget in March 2015.
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.
