The manufacturing industry and global supply chain have experienced significant disruptions in recent years. Primarily kicked off by the global COVID-19 pandemic, supply chains continue to suffer due to rising energy costs, labor and material shortages, and inflation pressures. As a result, more manufacturers are looking for ways to improve efficiency and reduce overall costs.
Bringing More Visibility to the Supply Chain
One of the biggest issues facing modern supply chains is the lack of transparency among participants. According to a recent Deloitte study, roughly 80% of manufacturers stated they had experienced massive supply chain disruption over the past year. And the same number indicated digital monitoring technology would enhance transparency and visibility throughout the supply network.
When supply chain participants don’t communicate, it leads to errors and inefficiency. Manufacturers have no way of knowing whether their raw material shipments are on time or delayed indefinitely. By injecting more visibility into the supply chain, key players can make more informed business decisions and operate more efficiently.
Achieving Efficiency Through Digital Innovation
A variety of digital innovation solutions are being deployed to boost visibility and improve efficiency. For example, supply chain leaders are using things like RFID tags to achieve transparency throughout the process. These simple tags can give participants information about a product’s location and details in real time.
Autonomous robots are also being used with increasing frequency. These AI-powered machines can handle tasks like sorting, picking, packing, and other repetitive functions in manufacturing and warehousing.
While some manufacturers have concerns about cybersecurity with digital transformation, those risks can be mitigated with the proper controls. The fact is that technology is the best way to identify and reduce bottlenecks in the supply chain and help companies make better decisions.
How Outsourcing Can Help
Another way to address supply chain inefficiency is to outsource more complex pieces of your business, such as CNC machining. Handling CNC machining doesn’t always make sense from a financial or efficiency perspective. Manufacturers can save a ton of money on equipment and get access to qualified help by choosing the right CNC machining partner.
If you’re a manufacturer in the Charlotte area with a part you need to get produced or a concept for a product you’d like to bring to life, you want to make sure it’s done accurately and affordably. At Components by Design, our team has over years of experience working with CNC technology. We not only partner with you to get you the products you need, but our professionals are also there to provide complete support after the sale. Contact us today to learn more about how we can make your vision a reality.