Industry 4.0 is the term used to describe the digital transformation of the manufacturing industry. Also referred to as the era of smart manufacturing or the fourth industrial revolution, it highlights the “shortcomings” and limitations of traditional manufacturing–limitations that were not overlooked often until the 2019 global pandemic exposed them.
In this blog, we will discuss the evolution of smart manufacturing–or the smart factory.
What is a Smart Factory?
In Industry 4.0, a smart factory is a futuristic connected network of machines, technologies, and computing power in a modern manufacturing facility. It is the result of digital transformation in manufacturing, along with intelligent automation.
A smart factory is driven by the convergence of the following technologies:
- Industrial IoT
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Augmented Reality (AR)
- Cloud computing
- Cybersecurity
- 3D printing or additive manufacturing
- Big Data and Analytics
A smart factory works through integrated manufacturing systems, integrating 3 elements namely, People, Machines, and Big Data. By interpreting data insights, it can automatically forecast industry trends and recommend smart manufacturing workflows and processes.
To implement a smart factory, manufacturers also need an efficient ERP solution, which can integrate data across the entire manufacturing process–from production to purchase. As the industry-renowned ERP for manufacturing, SAP Business One (or SAP B1) can help in the creation of intelligent factories for Industry 4.0. Let’s see how it does it.
Transforming Traditional Manufacturing with SAP Business One
Designed for the benefit of small manufacturers, SAP B1 can manage large volumes of information from various business divisions, including logistics, inventory, production, and customer service.
Here’s how SAP Business One for Industry 4.0 can transform any traditional manufacturing facility:
1. Analysing the Existing System
At the outset, manufacturers can use SAP B1 ERP to perform an initial audit of their existing systems, processes, and assets. This enables them to understand their most critical business processes–and which process needs to be automated immediately.
2. Managing the data
A smart factory is all about effective data analysis and management. Along with an efficient database, an ERP solution such as SAP B1 can serve as the “brains” behind the smart factory. With SAP B1, traditional manufacturers can transform into smart manufacturers–by managing Big Data across business systems and integrating digital technologies such as AI and machine learning.
3. Enabling End-to-End Digitalization
SAP B1 ERP facilitates end-to-end digitalization of all manufacturing processes through its in-built ERP modules. Smart manufacturing is not achievable without end-to-end digitalization. As a centralised platform, SAP B1 can also handle and share vast volumes of real-time data across its entire manufacturing process.
4. Enabling Real-time Reporting
Effective data analytics is crucial for implementing Industry 4.0. Using SAP Business One, manufacturers can generate real-time customised reports, which can improve their decision-making capabilities. With data analytics, they can get real-time insights into their smart factory operations and processes.
Here are some of the other ways in which SAP Business One can help in the transition to smart manufacturing:
- Integrates the production process with end-to-end business processes.
- Personalise the individual needs and requirements of customers–based on their valuable data inputs.
- Deliver personalised products (or services) to customers based on their needs.
- Enable manufacturers to build scalable processes and business agility to adapt to changing market demands.
- Synchronise the sales, procurement, and logistics services with the current production – thus enabling collaboration among various departments.
- Improve the overall productivity of the existing workforce by automating and streamlining their efforts.
- Build environmentally sustainable products by identifying eco-friendly manufacturing practices.
Conclusion
With the emergence of digital technologies like IoT and AI, the global manufacturing industry has accelerated its transition to Industry 4.0. Currently, SAP Business One is the most widely used ERP for manufacturing with its ability to integrate all business processes under a single centralised platform.
As an industry-recognized SAP business partner, Praxis Info Solutions has worked with general manufacturers along with manufacturers of automotive components.
Here are some reasons why Praxis is the right business partner to implement SAP B1.
Are you preparing to move your manufacturing facility to Industry 4.0? We can help you with this transition. If you want to know more, Contact us today.