The National Manufacturing Summit: An Echo Chamber or a Catalyst for Change?

The author reflects on the disconnect between UK manufacturing discussions at the National Manufacturing Summit and the pressing real-world challenges faced by manufacturers. Despite covering key issues like the skills gap, digitalization, and supply chain resilience, the summit’s focus on abstract ideas and jargon overshadowed practical solutions, highlighting the need for urgent, reality-based conversations to foster meaningful change.

7 Deadly Digital Transformation Failures in Manufacturing

Seven Deadly Sins of Digital Transformation in Manufacturing—And the Road to Redemption

The article discusses the Seven Deadly Sins of Digital Transformation in Manufacturing, emphasizing common mistakes that hinder progress and waste resources. It outlines the importance of engaging frontline workers, aligning technology with business objectives, having a clear strategy, being patient, focusing on actionable data, customizing solutions, and prioritizing change management to ensure successful digital initiatives.

Manufacturing Mouse Trap

The Manufacturing Mouse Trap: Lessons for Digital Transformation

In the “Manufacturing Mouse Trap” blog, the analogy of the classic mousetrap illustrates the importance of simplicity in digital transformation for manufacturing. Companies often overcomplicate solutions, losing sight of operational efficiency. By prioritizing functionality, intuitive design, and scalability, organizations can achieve measurable success and avoid the pitfalls of excess complexity.

Breaking Through the Digital Transformation Bottleneck: Reflections from the Digital Manufacturing Summit UK 2024

Last week, I had the honour of delivering the keynote at the Digital Manufacturing Summit UK 2024 from Transform Industry. I was invited by Ryan —a company dedicated to helping businesses unlock funding for innovation—and it was a whirlwind of insights, debates, and, let’s be honest, more than a few buzzwords. While the summit showcased …

From Buzzwords to Benefits Title

From Buzzwords to Benefits: Navigating Digital Transformation in Manufacturing

Why are we writing this article about Buzzwords to Benefits? In today’s boardrooms, manufacturing leaders are bombarded with buzzwords like ‘digital twin,’ industry 5.0,’ and ‘generative AI-driven analytics.’ These terms have become the modern-day snake oil—promising revolutionary changes without addressing the fundamental question: What real, measurable value do they bring to our business? How do we …

The road to results… What’s coming up

We hope everybody had an amazing summer and had a chance to recharge their batteries.  Now, as we transition from the end of summer towards the holiday season, Nick Leeder & Co. is set to deliver a rich lineup of content to drive value and insight across various industry verticals. Here’s what is coming up in …

Smart Manufacturing and Engineering Week 2024

Comprehensive Overview of Smart Manufacturing and Engineering Week in Birmingham

Last week, Birmingham was the epicenter of innovation and industry progress as it hosted the highly anticipated Smart Manufacturing and Engineering Week. This event brought together an impressive array of industry leaders, forward-thinking innovators, and dedicated professionals, all eager to explore and discuss the latest trends and advancements shaping the future of manufacturing. The vibrant …

A sustainability leader in a manufacturing company stands by a chess board

Building a sustainability strategy for manufacturing: How the CoSIRI Framework Can Propel Manufacturing Leaders Forward

Executive Summary In an era where sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity, manufacturers face a growing array of complex regulations across the globe. There is a growing need for building a sustainability strategy for manufacturing. From the EU’s detailed reporting requirements to the US’s stringent air quality controls, the challenge is formidable. …

showcasing a manufacturing leader sitting at their desk, deep in thought over the necessity of evolution

Our final thoughts… Industry 4.0 Transformation: Are You Leading or Just Lagging Behind?

Executive Summary: A Digital Revolution Beckoning 🚀 In the shadows of the fourth industrial revolution, a series of illuminating blog posts have emerged from the HiveMind of industry stalwarts, shedding light on the uncharted territories of Industry 4.0: Each title a beacon calling manufacturing leaders to the forefront of a digital dawn. Yet, amidst the …

Beyond Automation: How Industry 4.0 Workforce Empowerment is Redefining Success in Manufacturing

Beyond Automation: How Industry 4.0 Workforce Empowerment is Redefining Success in Manufacturing

In a nutshell: Industry 4.0 workforce empowerment is the secret sauce In an age where technology evolves at breakneck speed, it’s imperative that manufacturing leaders don’t just keep pace but stay ahead of the curve. And what is clear is that Industry 4.0 is not just about technology; fundamentally, Industry 4.0 workforce empowerment is the …