Integrating AI into predictive maintenance can revolutionize Lean manufacturing, offering significant benefits such as reduced downtime, increased equipment lifespan, and enhanced operational efficiency. To ensure a successful implementation, it is important to use Lean methodologies from the start to define objectives and scope.  ..read more

Why use Artificial Intelligence in quality assurance? Why not? AI has been around since the 1950’s, but only recently has it been applied to quality functions ..read more

Training is an important part of efficient recruitment and employee retention, as it helps people quickly onboard, understand their roles, perform tasks effectively, and identify paths to advancement. Manufacturers must invest in high-quality training to help maintain a skilled and motivated workforce.  ..read more

It's no surprise that advancements in Industry 4.0 have opened new opportunities for Six Sigma practitioners. As data sources get larger, competition grows, and customer expectations become more demanding, we require new tools to tackle the challenge. Machine learning and predictive analytics are an interesting and effective avenue that many have been reluctant to pursue–me included ..read more

With all the buzz lately around Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how it will improve efficiencies, streamline operations, and generally make our lives easier, one question is obvious: will companies ever use it to lead the most complex piece of equipment in their operations—the human being ..read more

Workforce shortages and skills gaps are some of the greatest hurdles reported by Michigan manufacturers in recent years. It’s clear: manufacturers need a pipeline of skilled and dedicated talent to fortify their operations, stay competitive, and secure their futures in the industry ..read more

Small and medium-sized manufacturers know they need to invest in automation, so they buy their first collaborative robot after seeing a demonstration of its capabilities. They assume there is a place for the cobot somewhere in their operation. But if they haven’t considered all the related impacts on their people and processes, their chances of a successful automation implementation are diminished ..read more

Automation has many benefits for small and midsize manufacturers, and in today’s competitive job market, augmenting your workforce is a big perk. Automation, in general, enables machines to perform functions with minimal to no human intervention. Whether you use cloud-based software to analyze data or employ robotics equipment to make work easier and safer for existing staff, automated tools can boost productivity and morale across your organization ..read more

The federal government in particular has a vested interest in supporting small businesses in manufacturing and other industries, and uses its purchasing power to help job-creating companies thrive. Read on for five initial questions to ask yourself if you are considering a move into the federal contracting marketplace ..read more

In the ever-evolving landscape of business, efficiency is the key to success, and one area where this is particularly crucial is supply chain management. Industries are becoming more complex and globalized, and traditional supply chain management methods aren’t cutting it. Enter Artificial Intelligence (AI), a game-changing technology that is transforming the way businesses manage their supply chains ..read more