AI in Manufacturing: A Practical Guide to Getting Started
Part 3: Unlock the Value of Your Data to Inspire Innovation
As an industry leader, you know you need to innovate to stay ahead of the curve and deliver more value to customers. In this final article of the AI in Manufacturing series, Lori Borg shares how manufacturers can unlock the value of their data and leverage the power of AI.
Article by Lori Borg
Data silos are a big problem in manufacturing.
In fact, one industry survey found that disconnected data hinders 74% of manufacturers, with 82% of senior leaders recognizing data as a valuable asset. But how can you fuel growth, innovation, and efficiency when critical data is trapped in isolated systems across departments?
Here’s a common scenario we see with our manufacturing customers:
Imagine an industrial part manufacturer struggling with data silos affecting its sales and production departments. The sales team uses a new CRM to track customer orders and manage quotes. However, production relies on a legacy system that holds vital information on machine capabilities and raw material availability.
Sales personnel quote competitive prices and promise quick turnarounds, only to discover production can’t meet deadlines due to limited machine capacity or a lack of specific materials. This mismatch leads to customer frustration and strained relationships. Sales also miss out on potential upsell opportunities.
Enter MCA Connect Inspire Platform™…
Unlock real-time manufacturing insights
Designed specifically for manufacturing, Inspire Platform is a modern analytics platform that lifts the fog of silos. It ingests and connects previously disconnected data, empowering manufacturers to identify hidden patterns and reveal insights that were previously invisible. With Inspire, manufacturers can make faster, data-driven decisions, transforming their enterprise data into a competitive advantage optimized for AI.
Here’s how Inspire Platform helps manufacturers overcome common challenges:
Access to real-time data
With Inspire, manufacturing sales reps gain access to real-time production data seamlessly integrated into the CRM system. No more scrambling for information or relying on outdated spreadsheets. With a single click, sales reps can verify machine availability and material stock – all in real-time. This transparency empowers sales to confidently quote realistic lead times, fostering trust and stronger customer relationships.
A clear view
Equipped with a clear view of production capabilities, missed deadlines are a rarity, and customer satisfaction has soared. By unlocking the power of consolidated data optimized for analytics, manufacturers are well-positioned to leverage AI to drive business processes.
Data-driven culture
Inspire Platform also fosters a true data-driven culture, inspiring excitement and innovation within companies.
One of our manufacturing customers recently shared:
“Inspire Platform ignites a desire for more data. Once they witness the possibilities, there’s an excitement to delve deeper and apply insights in innovative ways. With Inspire, we’re accelerating the journey towards data-driven decision making.”
Ready to learn more?
Watch a pre-recorded Inspire Platform demo:
Read Part 2 of this blog series by Lori Borg to learn more about how manufacturers can stay ahead of the curve and deliver more value to their customers using AI.
Read Part 1 of this blog series by Lori Borg to learn why manufacturers should embrace AI and B.E.S.T practices for AI Maturity.
Schedule your tailored Inspire Platform demo: Discover how Inspire can solve your specific business challenges and deliver value to your organization
AUTHOR
Lori Borg
Senior Vice President – Chief Growth Officer, MCA Connect