Manufacturers adopting new technology to meet supply chain goals, says report

A new report from Alithya Group Inc., reveals that manufacturers are rapidly adopting new technologies to meet supply chain, quality control, cybersecurity and sustainability goals.

Alithya Group released its annual Manufacturing Trends report for 2024, highlighting key findings and takeaways from a survey conducted among more than 150 professionals in the manufacturing sector.

“Alithya’s latest industry survey underscores the transformative potential of technology in manufacturing, while also highlighting the need to understand and use AI technologies to strengthen market positions,” said Russell Smith, leader of Alithya’s Enterprise Solutions Business group. “These insights illuminate the current state of the industry and how manufacturers plan to adopt new best practices, enhance operational efficiency, and stay ahead of emerging trends.”

Key findings from the Alithya Manufacturing Trends report:

• Top priority technology investment: One of the key findings of the report is that over 60 per cent of manufacturers plan to adopt process automation in 2024, making it the top priority technology investment. Other top technologies include Microsoft Copilot, predictive analytics, and supply chain management. The adoption of AI and machine learning technology is seen as a quick path to enhance efficiency, business operations, and supply chain resiliency.
• Innovation priorities: Manufacturers are focusing on improving operational efficiency and process productivity. Over 40 per cent of respondents identified innovation in operations as a priority, while 25 per cent focused on innovating processes.
• Supply chain resilience: To enhance the resilience of their manufacturing supply chains, manufacturers are diversifying their supplier base, investing in technology solutions, and strengthening strategic partnerships with key suppliers. Implementing advanced data analytics or AI-driven tools, and conducting regular risk assessments, are also part of their strategies for addressing potential disruptions and ensuring business continuity.
• Cybersecurity measures: Measures include conducting regular cybersecurity training for employees, upgrading network infrastructure with new security technologies, collaborating with cybersecurity experts or consultants, and implementing multi-factor authentication.
• Data analytics and AI in manufacturing processes: Manufacturers plan to implement machine learning for demand forecasting and planning, employ data analytics to optimize production efficiency, explore the potential of digital twins, use AI for predictive maintenance, and integrate data analytics to monitor energy consumption.