A Low-Risk, Incremental Approach to Smart Manufacturing for Small & Medium Manufacturers
Abstract
This guidebook provides small and medium manufacturers (SMMs) with a low-risk, incremental approach to adopting smart manufacturing (SM) technologies. Representing over 90% of the manufacturing industry, SMMs often face unique challenges such as limited resources, tight profit margins, and a scarcity of skilled labor. These factors contribute to hesitancy in embracing digital transformation. The guidebook dispels misconceptions about smart manufacturing, demonstrating its relevance and affordability for smaller organizations. It outlines five critical drivers—competitive advantage, data-driven decision-making, maintaining a single version of the truth, risk mitigation, and improved profit margins. By focusing on agility, modular transformations, and measurable benefits, the guidebook offers a step-by-step approach to building a smart manufacturing roadmap, engaging stakeholders, implementing pilot projects, and scaling transformations sustainably. Supplemented with global case studies, this resource equips SMMs to achieve strategic goals, enhance operational resilience, and maintain long-term competitiveness in a rapidly evolving industry.
Chapters
Introduction
Drivers – Five Reasons Why Smart Manufacturing is Imperative for SMMs
Envisioning a Smart Factory
An incremental & Low-Risk Approach to Smart Manufacturing Implementation
Case Studies
References
About MESA
MESA International (Manufacturing Enterprise Solutions Association) is a global nonprofit community dedicated to improving operational excellence in manufacturing. Their Smart Manufacturing Working Group focuses on advancing the principles and technologies of smart manufacturing, providing a platform for professionals to share knowledge, develop best practices, and address industry challenges. This group actively contributes to the creation of educational materials, frameworks, and initiatives that enable manufacturers to embrace digital transformation and Industry 4.0 effectively. Through collaborative efforts, they help organizations unlock new levels of productivity, agility, and innovation in the manufacturing sector.
Authors & Editors:
Ananth Seshan with 5G Technologies
Conrad Leiva with CESMII
Stefan Zippel with Litmus
Ryan Spurr with Connection (www.connection.com)
Michael Ford with Aegis Software
Julian Zhu with Litens
Jeff Winter with Microsoft
Made available to share with permission of MESA
