3 Benefits of Collaborating With Technology Providers in Manufacturing
In today's rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape, collaboration with technology providers has become a game-changer. This article explores the numerous benefits of such partnerships, from leveraging automation support to implementing cloud-based solutions. Drawing on insights from industry experts, we'll delve into how these collaborations are reshaping production processes and driving efficiency.
- Leverage China's Automation Support in Manufacturing
- Implement Cloud-Based MES for Production Tracking
- Develop Custom Alerts with Tech Provider
Leverage China's Automation Support in Manufacturing
In China, the government actively supports factories in adopting automation and robotics by offering incentives to encourage modernization. We work closely with factories that have independently developed advanced production systems using robotics and digital controls.
For example, in plastic injection molding, robotic arms now handle both the feeding and removal of parts. In microfiber cloth production, the entire process from cutting to folding is fully automated, with workers only managing the final packaging. We also work with a cap factory that uses barcode tracking at every step to give full visibility into design, embroidery, stitching, and worker output.
My advice to others seeking similar partnerships is to partner with factories that already invest in automation and digital processes, and make sure your internal systems are built to integrate with them. You don't need to reinvent the wheel, but you do need to connect everything into a clear, traceable process so that you can drive quality, efficiency, and lower costs.
Implement Cloud-Based MES for Production Tracking
We partnered with a cloud-based MES (Manufacturing Execution System) provider to streamline a client's production tracking. The client was a midsize manufacturer struggling with paper-based logs and outdated desktop software. I worked directly with their leadership team and our technology partner to map out the production flow, identify bottlenecks, and roll out a digital interface for real-time monitoring. Collaboration was key. We held weekly syncs with engineers, IT staff, and line managers to catch issues early. As the system went live, everyone—from the floor to the C-suite—could see how their work contributed to the final outcome.
Communication made it work. Everyone had a chance to give feedback, from the client's plant supervisors to the tech provider's developers. We didn't treat the provider like an outsider—they were part of the team. That kind of buy-in meant fewer delays and a smoother rollout. One of the most useful things we did was record short walk-throughs after each stage. Those videos helped get new users up to speed and gave our partner insight into how the system was actually being used on the ground.
If you're building a similar partnership, start small but involve the right people from day one. Let each side explain how they do things, not just what they want. If you're the one bringing in the tech, make sure your provider can explain what's going wrong, not just what their tool does. It's not about having the best product—it's about creating shared goals and staying in sync. That's where real improvement happens.
Develop Custom Alerts with Tech Provider
Last year, we partnered with a tech provider to implement real-time machine monitoring on our shop floor. Our issue wasn't downtime—it was the lack of visibility into why machines slowed down. The provider didn't just sell us a system; they spent two weeks shadowing our operators to understand the nuances. We co-developed custom alerts tied to specific behavior patterns, like temperature spikes before feed issues. Within three months, our throughput improved by 17%. My advice is not just to evaluate tech on features—assess how well the provider listens and adapts to your process. A good partnership feels less like outsourcing and more like adding a new team member who happens to write code.
