A new white paper titled ‘Made Smarter technologies: powering the digital transformation of SME manufacturers’ has been released, aiming to demystify digital transformation and provide practical guidance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the manufacturing sector. This initiative, backed by the government-supported Made Smarter program and industry-leading technology demonstrators in the North West, seeks to inspire and inform manufacturers about the potential of adopting digital technologies to enhance productivity and innovation.
The document highlights various existing technologies such as software, industrial Internet of Things (IoT), automation and robotics, 3D printing, and cybersecurity, while also shedding light on emerging digital tools like artificial intelligence (AI) and digital twins. By showcasing the capabilities of these technologies, the white paper aims to empower manufacturers to explore and embrace digital solutions tailored to their specific needs and challenges.
Leading institutions collaborating with Made Smarter to demonstrate technology in action to SME manufacturers include:
North of England Robotics Innovation Centre (NERIC): Located at the University of Salford, NERIC showcases cutting-edge automation and robotics solutions to address real-world business challenges, emphasizing the benefits of adopting such technologies in manufacturing processes.
PrintCity: Manchester Metropolitan University’s PrintCity facility specializes in 3D printing, supporting over 200 SMEs in developing new products and services. PrintCity collaborates with Made Smarter to deliver innovative training programs and workshops, showcasing the potential of 3D printing in boosting efficiency and innovation.
Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC): Based in Liverpool, MTC provides a platform for the development and demonstration of new technologies at an industrial scale, supporting skills, productivity, and growth across the UK manufacturing industry.
Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) North West: Located in Samlesbury, Lancashire, AMRC North West is part of a cluster of world-class centers for research into advanced manufacturing technologies, offering research and development capabilities to manufacturers of all sizes.
The Hartree Centre: Situated at Sci-Tech Daresbury, Cheshire, The Hartree Centre specializes in supercomputing, data science, and AI technologies, supporting SME manufacturers in harnessing the power of data for enhanced productivity and economic growth.
These collaborations underscore the commitment of Made Smarter and its partners to support SME manufacturers in embracing digital transformation. Through practical demonstrations, innovative training programs, and access to cutting-edge technologies, SMEs can unlock new opportunities for growth, efficiency, and competitiveness in an increasingly digitalized landscape.
The white paper also features success stories of Made Smarter-supported manufacturers, highlighting the tangible benefits of technology adoption. From job creation and upskilling to economic growth and enhanced productivity, these success stories exemplify the transformative impact of digital technologies on SMEs.
Donna Edwards, director of Made Smarter’s North West Adoption Programme, emphasized the importance of demonstrating technologies in action to facilitate meaningful adoption among SME manufacturers. By connecting manufacturers with leading technology institutes and providing accessible guidance, Made Smarter aims to empower businesses to thrive in the digital age.
The release of the white paper marks a significant step towards bridging the digital divide and equipping SME manufacturers with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to embrace digital transformation and stay competitive in an ever-evolving industry landscape.