Digitalisation for Manufacturers: Learnings from the Manufacturing Resilience Forum: Digitalisation Live
Digitalisation is changing the game for manufacturers, but knowing where to start, what to prioritise and how to turn modern technology into measurable results is another ball game!
Brought to you by Halston B2B, the Manufacturing Resilience Forum: Digitalisation Live, brought together manufacturers and industry experts to get into the detail of what digital transformation looks like on the factory floor.
The conversation focused on the opportunities, challenges, and decisions shaping the future of manufacturing, from artificial intelligence and automation to connected operations, people, and culture. Being the second edition in the Manufacturing Resilience Forum,
In this blog, we’re breaking down the key takeaways from the day, with practical insights to help manufacturers make smarter digital decisions, get their teams on board and turn ambition into action.
1. Digitalisation for Manufacturers Begins with Business Needs
With modern technologies emerging constantly, it can be tempting to invest in the latest tools without establishing what the business truly needs.
In our Lightning Talks, our speakers discussed their best approach to digitalisation for manufacturers has to be to identify the challenges first. Emma Chapman from Enhanced Control Solutions encouraged the audience to consider: are disconnected systems limiting visibility? Are manual processes creating bottlenecks?
In our keynote, John Cook of Waypoint North discussed how, when implementing AI, allowing human talent to make the judgements and using AI to do the legwork allows us to harness the technology to its full potential. He explored how using automation frees up skilled employees to focus on higher-value work.
Digital investment needs a clear purpose, with measurable objectives that help manufacturers understand whether a project is delivering the expected results.
The takeaway: Identify what needs to improve before deciding which technology to implement.
2. Turn AI potential into practical applications
AI was a key theme at Manufacturing Resilience Forum: Digitalisation Live, from including a dedicated AI blueprint workshop delivered by Tom Wilson from Razor.
For manufacturers, the opportunity lies in identifying where AI can solve genuine business challenges, whether that’s reducing repetitive tasks, improving access to information or supporting better decision-making.
However, successful adoption depends on more than choosing a tool. Businesses need to consider data quality, existing infrastructure, employee skills and how a new solution will fit into established processes. James Talbot of Great Balls of Flour shared how he used AI to set up his own operations hub, a key pillar of his business.
Starting with a clearly defined use case can help manufacturers assess the value of AI without committing to a large-scale transformation before they’re ready.
The takeaway: Focus on applications that solve real problems, rather than adopting AI simply because it’s generating attention.
3. Connect technology with operational performance
Automation and connected operations can help manufacturers improve visibility, efficiency and decision-making. But the value comes from how technologies work together, not simply from introducing more systems.
Our workshop with the incredible team at Vensis explored digitalisation for manufacturers and the practical considerations involved in adoption.
For manufacturers, this means looking beyond individual machines or processes. Connected systems can help teams build a clearer picture of operations, but implementation must account for existing infrastructure, integration requirements and the people responsible for using the technology.
Every investment should support a wider operational objective, from improving productivity to strengthening quality control.
The takeaway: Consider how technology can improve the wider operation, not just one isolated process.
4. People are central to digital transformation
Technology can change how a factory operates, but employees are the ones who need to make those changes work.
Dorrien Peters of Schofield Sweeney chaired People, Culture and Change, which explored the human considerations surrounding digitalisation. The panel consisted of Andrew Walton of ACS Stainless Steel, Helen Kenyon of Arville Textiles and Amanda McLaren, Group Managing Director, and NED Manufacturing Transformation & Growth expert.
Introducing new systems can affect established working practices, responsibilities and expectations. Without clear communication and appropriate support, even a technically successful project can struggle to gain adoption.
Manufacturers should involve employees early; explain why changes are happening and provide the training needed to use new tools effectively.
Digital skills and the right leadership also play a significant role in ensuring that investment translates into lasting improvements.
The takeaway: Digital transformation is a people-and-business change programme, not simply an IT project.
5. Visibility matters beyond the factory floor
Digitalisation also affects how manufacturers communicate their expertise and reach potential customers.
Our very own Jessica Farrow explored Answer Engine Optimisation (AEO) and Generative Engine Optimisation (GEO), highlighting how manufacturers can adapt their marketing as search behaviour evolves.
Buyers increasingly research suppliers, investigate technical challenges and compare solutions online before making contact. Manufacturers need useful, credible content that answers those questions and clearly communicates their capabilities.
Traditional SEO remains important, but businesses should also consider how AI-powered search tools can understand and surface their content.
The takeaway: Digital transformation includes how customers discover and evaluate your business.
Revisit the event by viewing all the slides below!
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