Tag Archives: Manufacturing

Manufacturing and maintenance environments are inherently high-risk, with heavy machinery, moving parts, and hazardous materials creating potential hazards daily. Over the past decade, technology has transformed how companies protect workers, reduce incidents, and improve operational continuity. The latest safety innovations integrate real-time data, automation, and smart systems to identify risks before they cause harm.

Real-Time Wearable Safety Devices

Wearable technology has moved beyond step counters and fitness trackers into highly specialized safety tools. Smart helmets, vests, and wristbands can detect environmental hazards such as dangerous gas levels, high temperatures, or excessive noise. Many wearables also monitor worker fatigue and heart rate, alerting supervisors if someone shows signs of overexertion or heat stress. This immediate feedback allows managers to intervene before a health event occurs, reducing both injury rates and downtime.

Advanced Machine Health Monitoring

Unexpected equipment failures not only disrupt production but can put workers at risk. Machine health monitoring systems use sensors and analytics to track performance metrics like vibration, temperature, and pressure in real time. This data helps maintenance teams identify early warning signs of mechanical issues, allowing repairs to be scheduled before breakdowns happen. Preventing sudden malfunctions protects employees working near machinery and supports safer, more predictable production schedules.

Collaborative Robots (Cobots)

While automation has been part of manufacturing for decades, collaborative robots represent a safer, more adaptable evolution. Cobots are designed to work alongside humans, performing repetitive or high-risk tasks such as heavy lifting or handling hazardous substances. Equipped with advanced sensors, they can stop immediately if they detect unexpected movement or contact, minimizing the risk of injury. Their adaptability also means they can be deployed in smaller facilities without extensive reconfiguration.

Augmented Reality for Maintenance Training

Augmented reality (AR) is changing how maintenance teams learn and perform complex tasks. With AR-enabled glasses or tablets, workers can see step-by-step instructions overlaid directly on the machinery they are repairing. This reduces the need for printed manuals or guesswork, lowering the risk of errors that could compromise safety. AR can also provide virtual simulations for high-risk procedures, allowing workers to practice without exposure to actual hazards.

Predictive Analytics for Workplace Safety

Data-driven safety programs use predictive analytics to forecast potential incidents before they occur. By analyzing trends from incident reports, machine performance data, and environmental sensors, safety teams can identify patterns that suggest higher risk periods or locations. Targeted interventions can then be deployed, whether that means adjusting staffing, scheduling maintenance, or adding protective equipment.

Technological advancements continue to redefine safety in manufacturing and maintenance. By combining automation, real-time monitoring, and data analysis, organizations can create environments where risks are minimized, productivity remains steady, and workers return home safely every day.

This infographic provides more information on the top technology improving safety in manufacturing and maintenance:

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“I have a foreboding of…when the United States is a service and information economy; where nearly all manufacturing industries have slipped away to other countries…” – Carl Sagan, 1995

We’ve heard the rhetoric that rebuilding manufacturing is in the national interest, but people who are unfamiliar with manufacturing often ask why. We know stories about how a Ford auto assembly plant was converted to build bombers during WWII. While that’s true, having factory capacity to build munitions for national defense is an oversimplification of the issue.

Two things make a nation great: a strong military and a strong economy. This is classical “guns and butter” economics. If you have a strong economy, but not a strong military, you are Japan.  If you have a strong military, but not a strong economy, you are Russia. Arguably, what underpins both a strong economy and a strong military is innovation. In this article, we will explore why a strong manufacturing sector is not only important for independence through supply chain resilience, but more importantly, the ability to stay at the cutting edge of innovation.

This may come as no surprise, but the world is a competitive place. What may come as a surprise is that manufacturing only accounts for 10% of the US GDP according the National Institute of Standards and Technology NIST, however manufacturing has an oversized effect on innovation with 55% of all patents and 70% of all R&D spending per the US Department of Defense. Let’s consider the hard and soft sides of the high-tech innovation race that is capturing the world’s imagination – Artificial Intelligence.

For hardware, the most advanced chips that run AI are largely produced in Taiwan. AI hardware for processors, storage, and robotics, relies on familiar elements such as aluminum, lithium, silicon and copper, as well as unfamiliar elements like gallium, germanium, and neodymium. There are an estimated 60 different metals in your smart phone. Minor metals critical to high-tech industries are often found with primary metal ore bodies in the US, but the US has not developed the technology to refine these “by-product” minor metals, so they are sold to China in crude form for further refinement. Apple has announced they are investing $500B in US manufacturing, but they will still be reliant on the minor metals and rare earth minerals produced by China.  For national security objectives to be achieved, innovation must reach through the entire supply chain.

On the soft side of AI (sometimes called “learning”), the US is generally considered the leader in AI model training, particularly in terms of research, development, and investment in notable machine learning models. How much of an advantage the US has over other nations (notably China) is debatable considering how quickly companies like Deepseek can respond to protectionist policies. However, the promise of AI is not in the hardware, nor in the learning logic itself, but in the application of AI.

Here it is useful to divide industries that produce products versus those that produce services. We are seeing how AI is impacting service industries such as entertainment, finance, and education, but AI will also profoundly affect manufacturing and transportation by improving automation, quality, predictive maintenance, and physical production. All tangible things that humans consume require some form of manufacturing and many layers of transportation and warehousing. The more manufacturing a nation has inside its borders, the more benefits it will realize from the innovative application of AI. Winning the AI race means not only producing the AI the rest of the world will use, but just as importantly, it means realizing the economic and military benefits promised by this revolutionary innovation in manufacturing everything from bacon to bombs.

Another important principle is that manufacturing companies provide a local economic leverage that service industries lack. Let’s consider mining again for this principle. If an ore body is discovered in the US, it is impossible to move its production overseas. Compare this to an APP based startup whose “product” is a service. Designing and coding, accounting, sales, customer service and similar service work in the “thought economy” can all be expatriated much more easily.

Local manufacturing jobs provide leverage in the local labor market. For every manufacturing job that is created, an estimated seven to twelve new jobs are created in other related support functions and industries. Among the support functions we find quality, safety, environment, sales, planning, procurement, warehousing, transportation, legal, skilled trades, and maintenance. Additionally, most manufacturing requires a supply chain with tier 1, 2, 3 and more suppliers.

Manufacturing jobs pay well, and the future talent pool is diminishing as more college graduates prefer to work in tech and service industries. In 2015, mining engineering programs in the US graduated 1,500 students compared to only 600 students in 2022. Skilled trades workers are in short supply and are commanding premium wages. One poll found that 57% of Gen Z students list “social media influencer” as their dream job. Long gone are the days when high school graduates joined unions and worked assembly lines for steady wages and good benefits. Gen Z graduates prefer to try to write a new million-dollar app or get a million followers to watch their trek through Bali. Consequently, we are slowly losing the capacity, and the capability, and even the will to make products in factory jobs.

Making tangible stuff is hard. Manufacturing requires significant planning and coordination between engineering, development, sales, finance, procurement, logistics, and operations. I am fond of saying, “It is easier to eat than it is to produce.” So much of our economy today is based on consumption rather than production. No nation has sustainably consumed its way into prosperity. Producing in the thought economy brings “amenity” value for consumers, but producing in the tangible economy provides national security.

USC Consulting Group is an operations management firm that has helped thousands of clients improve their manufacturing operations since 1968. Odds are, we understand your challenges and can confidently help you find solutions. Please contact us to learn more.

*This article is written by USC Consulting Group’s Supply Chain Practice Leader David Newman.

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The world is relying more than ever on automation and robots to get the job done. How do these human-less machines improve efficiency? Here are seven innovations reshaping manufacturing and related industries.

1. V2X Communication

Vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication is integral to the development of self-driving cars. With V2X capabilities, the car sends and receives information from other vehicles, energy grids and smartphones. Automobiles have yet to reach SAE level 5 autonomy, though V2X has already benefited manufacturers in existing vehicles.

For example, it can warn cars of nearby emergency vehicles and help them avoid collisions. V2X has another role in efficiency by improving fuel economy and reducing wait times. With enabled devices, manufacturers can implement automated platooning to minimize drag and consume less diesel. Communicating with the grid also informs vehicles about roads to avoid when jams occur.

2. Autonomous Ships

While research on self-driving vehicles focuses on the road, other experts have concentrated on autonomous ships. When deployed, these crewless boats can operate alone and without human intervention. Maritime professionals can control the vessel if needed, but autonomous boats leverage IoT sensors and other technologies to avoid collisions.

Autonomous ships have yet to become widespread, though some organizations have conducted trials in short voyages. Maritime experts say these crewless vessels could benefit the industry through advanced safety and efficiency. With autonomous systems, ships can optimize routes further and operate continuously. They also use data analytics for predictive maintenance and optimized shipping routes.

3. Delivery Robots

The timely arrival of goods is vital for order fulfillment and customer satisfaction. How can robots help companies reach their clients? Delivery robots are another example of autonomous innovation that improves efficiency. These machines take over the last mile and bring goods to the destination. While popular for restaurants, delivery robots have spread to other businesses.

Due to widespread use, the delivery robot market is expected to be worth $3.2 billion by 2032. Companies have incorporated them into their operations because they can reduce labor and fuel costs.

4. Drones

Drones are another significant autonomous innovation used across industries. These machines can access hard-to-reach areas and provide quality information, thus saving time. When deployed on construction sites, drones operate as flying security cameras on building sites and protect equipment. They can also track progress and recognize safety issues before they hurt employees.

Manufacturers have used drones to streamline processes and reduce waste. For instance, BMW deploys these crewless aircraft to check inventory and improve accuracy. General Electric (GE) has developed autonomous drones to inspect wind turbines, aircraft engines and other essential equipment. Manufacturers also benefit from drones when emergencies arise and rapid deployment is necessary for mitigation.

5. Brick-Laying Robots

Monotonous work can take time and energy away from more important jobs. Experts say nearly half of workers spend most of their time doing repetitive tasks. How can autonomous technology remove the time-consuming, monotonous tasks? In construction, industry professionals are turning to brick-laying robots.

Automating masonry is vital when building houses and office buildings. These machines can outpace humans in brick-laying without needing a break, thus reducing construction timelines and costs. Hadrian X is among the pioneers in brick-laying robots, and this technology recently arrived in the U.S. Reports indicate the machine had a sustained rate of 300 blocks per hour in testing.

6. Farming Equipment

Agriculture is crucial to the global economy, as it feeds communities and provides jobs. The world’s increasing population necessitates autonomous technology to meet demand while maintaining sustainability in the sector. In recent years, research and development has introduced driverless tractors, harvesters and planters to reduce labor needs and improve production.

Autonomous tractors benefit farms by working longer than humans and increasing precision in crop fields. Professors from the University of Missouri said this farming equipment could extend agricultural careers if farm owners have mobility or age-related issues. Other prominent features of autonomous tractors include GPS tracking, LiDAR and sensors for monitoring soil health.

7. Cleaning Robots

Devices like Roomba and iRobot have eased the cleaning burden in homes and smaller facilities. However, autonomous innovation has powered larger machines for manufacturing and industrial settings. These robots help janitorial staff clean more efficiently, thus reducing labor costs and improving hygiene. With continuous operations, they can clean overnight and support production schedules.

Autonomous cleaners have become versatile and efficient thanks to LiDAR, infrared sensors and similar technologies. These features help the robots detect obstacles, understand their surroundings and determine what needs cleaning. Recent innovations like the compact X4 Rovr assist manufacturers by fitting into small spaces and using AI-powered navigation technology.

Using Autonomous Technology to Build the Future

Industries are racing toward automation because of its efficiency opportunities. While challenges exist, companies have embraced these technologies because of heightened safety and sustainability. These machines and small devices can operate with minimal breaks, thus increasing output and reducing labor costs. From automotive to agricultural settings, autonomous innovations are rapidly changing the manufacturing landscape.

*This article is written by Jack Shaw. Jack is a seasoned automotive industry writer with over six years of experience. As the senior writer for Modded, he combines his passion for vehicles, manufacturing and technology with his expertise to deliver engaging content that resonates with enthusiasts worldwide.

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Achieving efficiency in manufacturing requires meticulous attention to pre-production processes, especially when managing temperature-sensitive operations. Pre-manufacturing thermal management is essential for maintaining product quality, ensuring equipment longevity, and improving overall operational efficiency.

The Role of Thermal Management in Manufacturing

Thermal management involves regulating temperature levels within machinery, materials, and environments to create ideal conditions for production. Excessive heat or improper cooling can compromise machinery performance and lead to defects in temperature-sensitive products. A robust thermal management strategy minimizes these risks, ensuring consistent outcomes and reducing downtime caused by equipment failure.

Industries such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and aerospace often handle materials that demand precise thermal control. For instance, electronic components require steady temperatures during assembly to avoid warping or damage. Without adequate thermal management, manufacturers risk product recalls and damaged reputations.

Pre-Manufacturing Strategies for Temperature Control

Implementing a pre-manufacturing thermal management plan involves understanding your facility’s specific needs and employing the right tools to monitor and maintain conditions. Thermal analysis equipment is a key investment for businesses aiming to achieve optimal production outcomes. These tools provide detailed insights into how heat is distributed and managed throughout the production process, helping identify areas of inefficiency or potential failure.

Effective thermal management strategies also include proper ventilation systems, insulation, and advanced cooling technologies. Additionally, scheduling routine maintenance ensures that thermal management tools operate correctly, preventing unexpected disruptions during production.

The Long-Term Benefits of Optimal Thermal Management

Businesses that prioritize pre-manufacturing thermal control enjoy several advantages, including reduced operational costs, improved product quality, and extended equipment lifespans. By addressing thermal issues early, companies can avoid costly repairs, minimize energy consumption, and enhance workplace safety.

Furthermore, implementing thermal management measures aligns with sustainability goals, as efficient temperature regulation often reduces waste and energy usage, positively impacting the environment.

Pre-manufacturing thermal management is more than just a technical requirement—it’s a cornerstone of efficient and sustainable production. Investing in tools and prioritizing proactive strategies ensures businesses can meet high-quality standards while staying competitive in a fast-paced market.

Check out the accompanying resource below to learn more.

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Labor shortages, supply chain disruption, and technological change have been cause for concern for executives in the manufacturing industry the last few years. As 2024 draws to a close, business leaders are looking ahead to the coming year. What will manufacturing be facing in 2025?

Here are five trends and challenges we’re expecting for the manufacturing industry in 2025 and advice on how to handle each issue.

1. Digital transformation

It’s not that AI and technology are coming for people’s jobs. It’s about this technology being able to streamline how the job gets done, adding speed, quality, and efficiency to the process. The 2024 Manufacturing and Distribution Pulse Survey Report by Citrin Cooperman found 43% of leaders in manufacturing are currently implementing advanced tech programs and policies in their organizations.

It’s involving AI and Machine Learning to optimize processes and outcomes, the Internet of Things (IoT) which will use smart technology to have machines communicate their own glitches and needs for maintenance, and robotics and automation for tasks like assembly.

The end goal is to increase predictive maintenance, optimize processes, ramp up quality control and provide real-time data for better decision making.

What manufacturing should do:

At USC, we help clients use AI, Machine Learning, and Predictive Analytics to optimize their workflows, processes and demand forecasting. Companies should be using these techniques now, if they’re not already. It’s also crucial to upskill existing employees to be able to work with the new technologies. That’s a win-win for manufacturing companies and their workforce. Higher skilled employees are happier, more effective, and more loyal to the company.

2. Talent

Workforce development, skills gaps and employee retention will be the top issues in regard to talent in 2025. It has been estimated that 1.9 million manufacturing jobs could go unfilled over the next decade if talent challenges aren’t solved. The old guard, long term, experienced employees that executives rely on to get the job done are retiring without a strong pipeline of younger workers to take their place. In addition, the labor force itself is concerned with flexibility, hours, pay, child care and more.

But there’s also the issue of skills. A new study by Deloitte and the Manufacturing Institute found that the need for roles requiring higher-level skills, including technical, digital and soft skills are growing at a rapid rate.

What manufacturing should do:

Working with local trade schools, community colleges and even high schools to offer internships and apprenticeships is a great way to build the talent pipeline.

Also, offering current employees training in digital skills, as well as soft skills like leadership and management training, will provide the company with higher-skilled workforce. This will create a sense of loyalty and pride in the employee knowing the company is investing in them with an eye toward the future.

3. Sustainability

The focus on sustainability is everywhere. Manufacturers are feeling increased pressure to become greener, and as a result are implementing environmental, social and governance strategies.

There is governmental pressure because of tighter environmental standards, but there is also pressure coming from consumers who increasingly want and seek out goods that are manufactured with “clean” methods.

What manufacturing should do:

Continuing to investigate efficient technologies like solar and wind, and making investments in machinery and other assets that are more energy efficient, will be crucial in the coming year and beyond. It will help lower operating costs while satisfying the demand from consumers.

4. Supply chain

Supply chain disruption that plagued just about every business on the planet during the pandemic has eased to a great extent, but challenges are still out there. Lead times for materials is still high, and the cost of transportation and logistics is weighing on companies’ bottom lines.

Shipping delays and uncertainties are a big part of the problem, with headlines nearly every day of yet another cargo ship being attacked at sea.

Then there’s the issue of labor shortages all along the supply chain, both in foreign countries and the U.S., with labor strikes slowing down delivery and labor shortages of truck drivers adding to the snarl.

What manufacturing should do:

It’s extremely challenging for companies to combat labor shortages and shipping delays in their supply chains, but smart demand forecasting and considerations like reshoring supply sources can help. In addition, establishing a strong Sales, Inventory, and Operations Planning (SIOP) program will optimize your supply chain.

5. Tariffs

With a new administration may come new global trade policies, and it’s not just the U.S. that held elections in 2024. Many countries around the globe are restructuring leadership. Ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions will certainly intensify as a result of the tariffs the new administration is proposing, driving up the cost of materials for manufacturers.

What manufacturing should do:

Many manufacturers are ordering supplies and materials now, before the new administration takes over. Stocking up now, in case of major price hikes later.

This issue goes hand in hand with supply chain disruption and is one more reason to consider reshoring and nearshoring of supplies and materials.

The Outlook

Despite ongoing challenges, 2025 looks bright for manufacturers to grow their businesses. Adapting operations to be sustainable and incorporating advanced technology with an upskilled workforce to manage it, business leaders will enjoy major improvements to productivity, their supply chain, and customer satisfaction.

At USC Consulting Group, we’re here to help manufacturing companies become more productive and profitable with standardized operating procedures, enhanced management operating systems, SIOP improvements, and other strategies to find opportunities for greater efficiencies, increased throughput and bottom line results. Contact us today to have your operations humming in 2025.

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When cargo theft occurs, the entire supply chain suffers. Manufacturers must be aware of these recent trends occurring and act accordingly to protect their assets. With smart planning, businesses can adequately thwart thieves and safeguard their employees. Here are considerations for manufacturers to move in the right direction.

1. Understanding the Most Significant Risks

First, companies should understand the specific threats to which they are most vulnerable. The most immediate danger could be trucks in unsecured areas where thieves can quickly access them. In other instances, manufacturers may see organized crime targeting highly valued goods. Regardless, business owners need to acknowledge their weaknesses.

Researchers have investigated risk influential factors (RIFs) to determine the most damaging aspects. A 2022 study published in Reliability Engineering and System Safety developed a data-driven Bayesian network model to predict and diagnose cargo theft. The experts said product category, year, region, location type and modus operandi are the most significant RIFs. Therefore, manufacturers should be aware of these guidelines.

2. Leveraging Advanced Algorithms

Improving cargo security has become more challenging due to increased attack surfaces and opportunities for outside threats. In response, manufacturers must leverage advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to protect their assets. Algorithms are excellent tools for business owners because they reduce the theft risk when transporting goods on the road.

A 2024 study published in Computers and Industrial Engineering used a physical internet-based analytic model to combat rising cargo theft. The researchers used real-world scenarios in their experiments to understand the benefits and drawbacks. Their model determined the risk of different product types based on their specific routes, allowing them to better understand the threshold where shipments become vulnerable to criminal organizations.

3. Using the Internet of Things (IoT)

IoT devices are critical for management operating systems (MOS) because they enhance software and hardware capabilities. With these gadgets, manufacturers can improve productivity and financial performance. IoT research is also critical for securing cargo through each step of transit. For instance, GPS technology provides real-time knowledge of each shipment.

Manufacturers should take advantage of IoT because it can be present with the device and around the facility. Smart cameras are an excellent example because business owners can remotely monitor the feeds and promptly take action. Advanced technology also lets manufacturers take extra steps to protect their cargo. Smart locks with biometric recognition are a vital safeguard against thieves.

4. Improving Cybersecurity Practices

Cargo theft increased by 46% in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same time in 2023. CargoNet reported 925 incidents in the quarter, emphasizing the need for heightened security tactics. While physical barriers are necessary, manufacturers should also improve their cybersecurity practices. Internet crime is equally damaging to companies and could be more challenging to predict.

Ransomware attacks are among the most pivotal for manufacturers, considering their frequency. A 2022 IBM report found that 23% of these incidents affected manufacturing, making it the most targeted industry. Preventing ransomware attacks entails basic to advanced cybersecurity tactics, such as multifactor authentication, anti-malware software and software updates.

5. Selective Supplier Partnerships

Some manufacturers outsource specific tasks to reduce overhead and strengthen their bottom line. In addition to these partners, companies must watch other links in the supply chain. Businesses should monitor supplier relationships to ensure security — otherwise, they risk lost revenue and downtime while fixing errors.

Supplier relationships start with background checks and regular audits. Manufacturers must ensure these partners do their best to detect and address vulnerabilities. Business owners should find companies with pertinent industry certifications like C-TPAT if applicable. Monitoring should continue throughout the relationship with consistent communication and key performance indicators (KPIs).

6. Properly Training Employees

While suppliers can be security liabilities, it’s equally essential for manufacturers to monitor their employees. Workers may willingly or unknowingly contribute to cargo theft through their actions, so businesses should protect them from themselves. First, company leadership should train employees on best security practices, such as reporting procedures and proper loading.

Then, the company should focus on internal theft from its workers. Experts say over 75% of employees have stolen from their employer at least once. Therefore, robust internal measures should be in place to prevent theft. Mitigating employee stealing includes restricting access control and using biometric scanners. Business owners could also encourage workers to be vigilant of suspicious activity.

7. Controlling Supply Chain Aspects

Ultimately, it’s up to manufacturers and business owners to control as many supply chain aspects as possible. Internal audits are a valuable tool because they reveal gaps in shipments and where theft has potentially occurred. Once a company understands its insufficiency, leadership teams can act accordingly. Businesses should audit their inventory, security and other critical business features.

Supply chain professionals should also regain control in areas they may consider less secure, such as transit. Highways and oceans provide plenty of unknowns, so businesses must protect their cargo before, during and after the route. Besides GPS devices, forward-thinking companies wield electronic seals, telematics devices, light sensors and other tech.

Tackling Theft and Protecting Assets

The rise in cargo theft should alarm manufacturing professionals and business owners. Outside threats have become more sophisticated through physical and cybersecurity risks. While crimes have increased, manufacturers should proactively combat thieves. Leadership teams should scrutinize suppliers, employees and other aspects of the supply chain to ensure safety.

*This article is written by Jack Shaw. Jack is a seasoned automotive industry writer with over six years of experience. As the senior writer for Modded, he combines his passion for vehicles, manufacturing and technology with his expertise to deliver engaging content that resonates with enthusiasts worldwide.

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The manufacturing industry is experiencing multiple challenges this year. Among the most significant hurdles it’s facing is a high turnover. Roughly 75% of the manufacturing professionals surveyed by L2L reported a lack of skilled workers in the sector over the past 12 months, fueled by poor communication and management skills. That triggers a domino effect that can impact a manufacturing company’s ability to run smoothly, meet changing consumer demands to attract and convert leads, scale operations—and, ultimately, bolster its bottom line. This makes increasing sales and revenue arguably the biggest problem the industry is tackling today.

But how do you solve it when profit is also the one thing that will help you invest in the necessary solutions? Insights from the L2L report believe the answer lies in digital transformation. With the right revenue-boosting tools, manufacturing businesses can take advantage of a few key benefits that can help increase their profit margins and face the above challenges head-on. Here’s more on the value revenue technology can bring to the manufacturing industry.

It streamlines revenue recognition

Tracking income streams can often be more challenging in manufacturing compared to other industries. Businesses in this sector usually offer a more diverse range of products and services to cater to unique client specifications. That means production cycles in manufacturing typically take longer than average. Due to these factors, juggling multiple client contracts and receiving payment at irregular intervals is typically the norm for the manufacturing business. That can complicate revenue recognition, which involves recording and reporting all income a company generates in line with industry regulations and accounting principles. Revenue technology can streamline the process, making it easier to track all sources of income, more accurately assess a business’ financial health, forecast future revenue, and budget accordingly.

That’s why you’ll see even major manufacturers like IBM using the revenue recognition software on SOFTRAX. This multi-tenant solution uses back-office automation to recognize revenue for you in compliance with ASC 606 and IFRS 15, even if you use complex billing models. That way, you can practice continuous accounting no matter how many clients you’re handling and what kind of product they’re asking for. Automated revenue recognition solutions also free up employee resources for more valuable tasks, which can help hit multiple birds with one stone—they’ll have time to strategize on how to increase revenue further, and that can challenge their skills, enhancing job satisfaction for reduced turnover.

It enhances debt recovery capabilities

Despite the value technology brings to revenue recognition, the same factors that complicate the task of tracking income can make collecting payments from clients more challenging. The lack of communication mentioned above can often extend to clients, making overdue payments one of the biggest sore points that add tension to customer-supplier relationships. That’s why business development experts from Krem Energy find that manufacturing has the second-highest rate of overdue payment rate out of any industry, with companies often waiting an average of 32.8 days for compensation. This issue can significantly impact cash flow, which is why you’ll want to have a plan in place to deal with it. That’s where revenue technology can help.

With the right platform, you can automate everything from communicating with clients about overdue payments to ultimately collecting them. Vergent’s loan management software, which is used by leading lending firms like TMX Finance, illustrates how those benefits can apply to manufacturing. Though not originally designed for this industry, it offers automated collection services to facilitate smooth debt data and money transfers for streamlined recovery processes. It also provides the ability to customize client communications, which can be especially useful for manufacturing businesses with a diverse customer base. Automated tools like this one can reduce operational costs usually spent on debt recovery for improved savings, while also helping the employees typically assigned to this task focus on more pressing responsibilities.

It improves cash flow

The above benefits mean manufacturing businesses can ultimately use revenue technology to boost cash flow. That’s important because increased profits allow companies to invest in solutions that can answer multiple industry challenges and keep operations sustainable in the long run. For example, funding employees who want to take online classes from sites like Coursera can help upskill existing workforces to make up for labor and skill shortages, while ERP management software can pay for itself by streamlining inventory and project management for improved operations. More income also means businesses can refer to consultants to determine exactly what’s causing financial inefficiencies and receive tailored help implementing changes, which is precisely what we offer here at USC Consulting Group.

One great example of this can be seen in our case study, which outlines how we helped one of our clients—whose services specialized in moving equipment—increase cash flow. Our consultants first pinpointed a disconnected floor plan as the main issue, as it caused a lot of unnecessary travel for workers retrieving materials. They then implemented ways to eliminate redundancies. A major part of the improvement project? Creating a new floor plan in line with input from experienced employees. The client benefited from a 91% to 115% jump in efficiency, all while cutting down on the necessary manpower and expenses needed to make that happen. Revenue technology helps pave the way for manufacturing businesses to gather the funds needed to avail of these customized solutions, which is arguably where they provide the most value.

*This article is written by Rose James. Rose is a freelance writer with almost a decade of experience. She writes about new developments in business and finance, as well as on new technologies like AI and automation.

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Got Gen Z on the payroll? If you’re like many companies in the manufacturing sector, the answer is likely “no.” That is a talent pipeline your business is missing out on. A couple of recent studies highlight the scope of it.

Here’s a snapshot:

• By 2030, Gen Z will make up 30% of the U.S. workforce. The seasoned pros and top employees you have now will be looking at retirement if not already out on the golf course full time.
• 70% of Gen Z would NOT consider a career in mining.
• 48% of Gen Z now working in manufacturing intend to leave their jobs within the next three to six months.
• 71% of mining executives said the talent shortage is now affecting their delivery, production targets and even strategic objectives.
• 86% said it’s more difficult to recruit and retain talent.

Despite these rather bleak statistics, there’s good news out there, too. It’s possible to turn those numbers around with some savvy strategies for hiring and retention.

Gen Z: The Toolbelt Generation?

The first step in attracting the younger generation to your workforce is knowing what makes them tick. Who are these kids?

Born between 1997 and 2012, Gen Z is digitally native, meaning they have never known life without a cell phone or the internet. They are extremely socially aware and environmentally conscious.

Gen Z grew up during the pandemic. These are the students who couldn’t go to their high school proms because of Covid-19 and discovered the realm of virtual learning.

Gen Z values work-life balance more than money, and are interested in career growth. They have heard about the crushing burden of student debt all of their lives, and the good news for manufacturing, Gen Z is trending toward trade schools rather than getting an expensive four-year education.

In fact, the Wall Street Journal just ran an article titled “How Gen Z is Becoming the Toolbelt Generation.” And it’s getting a lot of buzz.

The article highlights a growing trend of young people opting for trade schools over four-year college degrees. The reasons are as pragmatic as Gen Z itself:

• Student debt. They don’t want it.
• Immediate employment. They’ve seen their older siblings struggling in a tough job market.
• Changing perceptions about “the trades.”

6 tactics to attract Gen Z

So, what are some strategies to attract this younger generation?

Emphasize work-life balance. Gen Z is all about their work-life balance. That means flexible hours, competitive compensation, great benefits, and a healthy amount of vacation time.

Highlight problem solving. Gen Z loves to problem solve and put their minds to work.

Showcase high tech. Manufacturing organizations are leaning into tech jobs, with robotics, and data analytics. Showcasing these aspects of the industry will appeal to young digital natives.

Outline a career path of growth, development, mentorship and training. The last thing Gen Z wants is a job with no future. These young people need to see how they can grow and develop within your company, that there is a path forward and training to help them get there.

Partner with trade schools… Trade schools are your pipeline for new employees, so sponsoring a job fair, speaking to classes, and otherwise developing a presence at your local trade school will put your company top of mind when these young people graduate.

…or pay for them to get the training they need. An alternative or even complimentary strategy is recruiting students right out of high school or online with the promise you’ll pay for their degree. If families are wary of student debt, this can be a powerful motivator.

Attracting and retaining Gen Z can feel like a moving target. But by focusing on what’s important to this generation, you can zero in on an enormous pool of talent that will take your company into the future.

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In the dynamic realm of industrial operations, downtime is the arch-nemesis of productivity and profitability. Every minute lost to equipment breakdowns or maintenance activities translates into potential revenue losses, increased operating costs, and compromised competitiveness. Amidst this relentless pursuit of operational efficiency, the emergence of low or no maintenance industrial machinery heralds a transformative era for industries worldwide.

High maintenance equipment has long been a staple in industrial settings, requiring regular servicing, lubrication, and part replacements to ensure optimal performance. However, the inherent drawbacks of such machinery, including frequent downtime, escalating maintenance costs, and operational disruptions, have spurred a quest for alternative solutions.

Enter low or no maintenance industrial machinery—an innovation poised to revolutionize the industrial landscape. Engineered with durability, reliability, and longevity in mind, these advanced systems promise to mitigate the adverse effects of downtime and high maintenance requirements, ushering in a new era of seamless operations and cost savings.

The detrimental effects of downtime on industrial productivity cannot be overstated. Whether due to unexpected breakdowns or scheduled maintenance activities, every moment of idle machinery translates into lost production opportunities and diminished output. Moreover, the ripple effects of downtime extend beyond immediate financial implications, impacting supply chain dynamics, customer satisfaction, and overall business resilience.

In contrast, low or no maintenance components, equipment, and machinery offer a beacon of hope for industries grappling with the specter of downtime. By incorporating self-lubricating mechanisms, wear-resistant materials, and advanced monitoring technologies, these innovative solutions minimize the need for frequent maintenance interventions and extend operational uptime.

The benefits of adopting low or no maintenance industrial machinery are manifold. Beyond the immediate gains in productivity and cost savings, these systems promote a culture of efficiency, sustainability, and resilience within industrial ecosystems. By reducing reliance on traditional maintenance practices, industries can reallocate resources towards value-added endeavors, enhance worker safety, and contribute to environmental stewardship efforts.

In this infographic from FLEXIM, we delve into the profound impacts of downtime and high maintenance equipment on industrial operations, while illuminating the transformative potential of low or no maintenance machinery. Through compelling visuals and insightful analyses, we aim to empower industries with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the evolving landscape of industrial maintenance and usher in a new era of efficiency and prosperity.

To learn more about best practices for asset management and reducing downtime, contact us to connect with our subject matter experts.

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