Global digital transformation spending is expected to reach $3.4 trillion by 2026. The digital technologies manufacturing services market itself is booming. It’s projected to grow from USD 387.65 billion in 2022 to USD 1,670.45 billion by 2031. This growth is fueled by the increasing adoption of innovative technologies like 3D scanning and augmented reality.

In this post, I will share advice on what to ask before you start your digital transformation journey, the importance of your in-house team, choosing the right partners, and how digitalization can transform your business.

Get ready to explore how digitalization can revolutionize manufacturing.

Assessing your current state and goals

The first step is understanding where you are now and where you want to be in the future. Imagine setting out on a road trip with no map, no stops in mind, and not knowing which direction to start driving in. It would be mad to do so, and it’s the same as pushing forward with digitalization.  

Approximately 89% of all companies have already adopted or are planning to adopt a digital-first approach.  And the first step to take is to be clear about what you want. The clearer you are with your goals, the easier it will be for your software partner to understand the value of every feature of your project.

When it comes to deciding whether you are ready for digitalization, ask yourself these three questions.

Where are you today?

Before moving forward it’s best to understand the current state of your business, including its processes, systems, and challenges. The more you can share about your business models, processes, and how things work, the easier it is for software engineers to understand the value of your business.

Read also: Why Software Engineers Need To Understand Domain-Driven Design?

Where do you want to be?

Coming to a software partner and saying “Let’s start from square one” isn’t the way forward. Although most software partners can advise you on the best solutions. It is a lot easier and more productive to have a clear set of defined objectives. Start by looking at what your business aims to achieve through digitalization.

I will share more information about this in section 2.

And finally…

What’s stopping you from getting there?

Another good step is to identify obstacles and challenges that will stop you from reaching your goals. Are there issues with processes that will be hard to update without impacting the day-to-day routines? The more issues you can identify and bring to your software partner the more solutions they can bring. Digital transformation can be a complex and challenging process, and organizations should be aware of potential pitfalls to ensure a smoother journey.

Read also: How to Start a Collaboration with a Software House? From First Contact to Onboarding

Where digitalization can impact manufacturing

Going back to question 2, “Where do you want to be?” There are multiple areas where digitalization can improve your processes. From boosting end-user retention to improving internal communication. Having a stronger idea of how digitalization can impact your business process and knowing what direction you want to go in means you can get the most out of your partnership.

Customization – personalizing your products

Customization is no longer a luxury but a necessity to stay competitive. Digitalization allows for a more agile approach to production, allowing you to offer personalized products. This customization can range from tailored dimensions to unique design features. The benefits? Increased customer satisfaction and a stronger brand identity. Personalized products create a unique value proposition, boosting retention and customer experience.

Collaboration – enhancing internal communication

Platforms for project management, real-time communication, and shared digital workspaces are essential for breaking down the walls between departments. For instance, engineers, designers, and production teams can simultaneously work on product designs. This allows for immediate feedback and adjustments. As well as better decisions that improve key performance indicators (KPIs) with the help of cloud computing.

Manufacturing flexibility – adapting to demand

Digitalization introduces a level of flexibility. Advanced manufacturing technologies like robotics, automation, and smart factories enable quick changes in production lines. This agility allows for shorter lead times, efficient use of resources, and the capability to switch between product types or scale production with demand.

Integrated and hybrid manufacturing

Digitalization blends traditional manufacturing methods with cutting-edge technologies like additive manufacturing (3D printing) and advanced robotics. For example, integrating 3D printing for complex components with traditional assembly lines can lead to more innovative products and faster production times.

Strategic customer relationships

Beyond sales, you can use digital tools to gain deeper insights into customer preferences and behaviors. By understanding and anticipating customer expectations, you can create more meaningful, long-lasting relationships with customers, boosting retention and repeat business. Finding the right technology can help you become more customer-centric.

Data-centric approach

Using data can help you make the right choices with your business strategy.  This can range from predictive maintenance of machinery to optimizing supply chains and improving product designs. A data-centric strategy not only improves operational efficiency but also helps you to make data-driven choices. This is being helped because of AI developmental services.

Did you Know?

The global AI in manufacturing market size was USD 1.82 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach USD 9.89 billion by 2027. And there’s a good reason for this.

The human factor: people and team dynamics

Digital initiatives in manufacturing aren’t just about technology; it’s equally about the people who will drive this transformation. Your internal team is a goldmine of talent and expertise, and recognizing their strengths is the first step toward a successful digital transformation. Identifying a leader or a group of individuals who can help identify key areas where digitalization can make the most impact is vital. These individuals will serve as the bridge between your vision and the practical side.

The importance of your team

Successful digital business transformation is driven by people. Recognize the importance of each team member. These are the people that will benefit the most from digitalization so including their opinions is a great way of identifying where digitalization can make the largest impact.

Use innovators and early adopters

Identify and empower those within your organization naturally inclined toward new digital technologies. These individuals can help others adopt the new technology as well as act as leaders for change. Identifying people who will help others learn and who will implement the digital transformation is a good step.

Building a digital transformation team

Form a dedicated digital transformation team with a mix of technical, operational, and change management skills. Appoint a single point of contact to communicate with external software partners.  This helps to streamline communication between internal and external efforts. It also helps in effectively managing the digital transformation project process.

Read also: leadership strategies we use to get the most out of our team.

The power of software partnerships

Although the process of digitalization should start internally, finding the right software partner to help guide you and share advice can make the digital strategy process easier. Here, I wanted to share two pieces of advice.

Select partners who align with your ready-for-digital transformation vision and goals. Look for expertise, experience, and a track record of successful digital transformations. Looking through their clutch reviews and successful projects is a good start.   The ideal partner should not only provide technological solutions but also understand your industry’s unique challenges and opportunities.

Read also: Successful Partnership From First Meeting to the Right Software Solution

Effective partnerships with companies bring additional insights, resources, and perspectives. Collaborate closely with your partners to use their expertise and knowledge to bring new value. As well as helping to bring about organizational change. Open communication and shared goals are key to a successful collaboration that helps you find where digitalization makes the biggest impact.

Read also: How to work with software developers? Real-life business tips to improve your cooperation

Are you ready for the digital world?

This digital transformation is about much more than just embracing new technologies. It’s about understanding your company and current position, picturing where you want your business to be, and identifying the challenges that may stop you from getting there.

Your journey towards digitalization in manufacturing is a strategic move toward innovation, efficiency, and competitive advantage. As well as helping you develop new business models. Remember, it’s a collaborative effort involving your team, employees, and the right partners who will work together to match your business objectives.

Get in contact today for a chat about how to start bringing digitalization to life in your business.