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Discover how mid-market food and beverage manufacturers can assess digital maturity, reduce downtime, and accelerate transformation with structured assessments.

Downtime is one of the biggest risks in manufacturing. This article explores what downtime really is, the most common causes, the hidden financial and operational costs, and proven strategies to reduce unplanned stops and improve plant reliability.

Exploring the unique challenges and opportunities in manufacturing, this post highlights the critical role of Operational Technology (OT) expertise, the importance of plant floor experience, and the need for tailored strategies to drive innovation and navigate reshoring efforts.

Learn what a true Gemba walk is, why it matters in modern manufacturing, and how leaders can use it to build trust, spot hidden problems, and drive continuous improvement.

A well-structured supply chain is the backbone of any successful business. This post explores the fundamentals of supply chains, the key differences between supply chain management and logistics, the most common supply chain models, and the emerging trends shaping the industry. Understanding these concepts is essential for companies looking to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

In today’s manufacturing environment, data has become a central resource for decision-making and process improvement. However, translating raw industrial data into actionable insights is far from straightforward. Despite the frequent use of terms like IoT, digital transformation, and Industry 4.0, many manufacturers find that realizing the potential of data is far more complex than anticipated.

Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) are often misunderstood or underutilized, seen simply as production trackers. But in reality, MES plays a critical role in modern manufacturing — sitting between ERP systems and shop floor controls to coordinate people, machines, and materials in real time.

Explore the essential components of a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and their impact on manufacturing efficiency. This in-depth guide covers practical deployment strategies for MES tools like OEE tracking, product traceability, and statistical process control, illustrating how each can solve key challenges in the manufacturing environment. Perfect for manufacturers seeking to enhance visibility, optimize production, and improve decision-making through data-driven insights.

Discover how manufacturing consulting can transform your operations. Learn about key strategies, services, and success stories to optimize efficiency, reduce costs, and drive innovation in your manufacturing processes.

Industry 4.0 in Manufacturing - IIoT, Smart Manufacturing | Understanding Industry 4.0: Definition, Technology, and the Future of Smart Manufacturing

Discover how MQTT is revolutionizing manufacturing by enabling real-time data exchange, enhancing operational efficiency, and driving smart, connected systems. This comprehensive guide covers everything from MQTT’s core features and security to practical use cases, helping manufacturers embrace the future of Industrial IoT.

A comprehensive guide to Lean Manufacturing Consulting, covering key strategies, tools, industry applications, and the future of Lean with Industry 4.0. Learn how Lean consultants drive efficiency, reduce waste, and improve operational performance across various industries.

Discover a comprehensive guide to Industry 4.0 software, covering everything from technology stack selection and vendor ecosystem to digital maturity assessment and future trends. This in-depth resource helps manufacturing decision-makers navigate digital transformation, optimize production, and achieve lasting success in the era of smart factories.

Learn how to protect industrial control systems (ICS) and operational technology (OT) from evolving cyber threats. This guide covers key practices like asset management, network segmentation, compliance, and emerging technologies like AI and cloud computing, offering practical steps to build resilient cybersecurity for critical infrastructure.

Most SCADA and MES systems miss critical machine data because of how information is structured and stored inside the PLC. This article explains how PLC scan cycles, memory registers, and data queues affect real-time visibility, diagnostics, and system performance. Learn why engineers must treat PLCs not just as controllers, but as the foundation of a reliable industrial data pipeline.

Explore the ERP ecosystem in this comprehensive guide, detailing key stakeholders such as IT teams, operations managers, vendors, and consultants. Learn actionable collaboration tips and best practices to ensure successful ERP implementation and drive efficiency in your organization.

Discover how automation is transforming manufacturing, from increasing efficiency and quality to overcoming integration challenges. Learn about key technologies, workforce impact, and the future of smart factories.

Learn how to set up a Windows VM on a DELL PowerEdge R730xd server using Proxmox. This guide covers everything from installing Proxmox and configuring your virtual machine to mounting necessary ISO images and adding essential drivers. Perfect for those new to enterprise-grade servers or looking to optimize their virtualization setup on powerful hardware.

Learn how to configure networking and enable remote access for Windows VMs on a DELL PowerEdge R730xd. Follow step-by-step instructions to set up private and public network interfaces, install essential Windows drivers, and configure remote desktop access. This guide is ideal for those looking to create a networked environment for industrial automation or similar applications on Proxmox.

Learn what takt time is, how to calculate it, and how it applies across different manufacturing environments. This in-depth guide covers takt time vs. cycle time, lead time, and throughput, with practical examples and insights to improve production flow and reduce waste.

Discover expert advice and insights on consulting strategies for maximizing success and impact.

Discover what a system integrator does and why they are critical to modern manufacturing success. This in-depth guide covers system integrator roles, services, tools, business models, evaluation criteria, and real-world implementation strategies. Learn how integrators connect PLCs, SCADA, MES, cloud platforms, and edge computing to build scalable, secure, and intelligent manufacturing systems. Perfect for plant managers, engineering leaders, and operations executives planning automation upgrades or digital transformation projects.

Supply chain consulting helps businesses optimize operations, reduce costs, and improve resilience in an increasingly complex global market. This post explores what supply chain consulting is, why it’s essential for modern businesses, the biggest challenges companies face, and how consultants drive efficiency, agility, and profitability.

Discover how Unified Namespace (UNS) unifies data across manufacturing systems like MES, SCADA, ERP, and IIoT, enabling real-time visibility and streamlined decision-making. This guide outlines UNS principles, benefits, and architecture, including implementation with MQTT and Sparkplug for scalable and secure data management. Explore whether UNS is right for your digital transformation—connect with a skilled professional to assess your unique needs.

Root Cause Analysis (RCA) helps manufacturers reduce downtime, improve efficiency, and enhance safety. This blog covers key techniques, best practices, and how tools like IoT and AI make RCA more effective, emphasizing its role in driving operational excellence.

Explore how Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) boost efficiency by streamlining production, improving quality, and enabling real-time data insights. This guide covers MES essentials, integration with ERP and SCADA, and benefits for modern manufacturing.

Manufacturing Concepts - Edge Devices, PLCs, IPCs & Industrial Automation Software Hardware Architectures

Discover how MES powers real-time execution on the shop floor — from live production monitoring to digital work instructions and operator dashboards. Learn how these tools turn plans into action and drive measurable performance.

Understanding how to design, validate, and bring in equipment into a manufacturing facility the right way.

Master Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) with PPT and McKinsey 7S frameworks—essential strategies for seamless MES implementation, boosting efficiency and driving digital transformation in manufacturing.

Discover how Lean Six Sigma combines efficiency and quality to drive manufacturing excellence. Explore its principles, benefits, real-world applications, and future trends in this comprehensive guide. Perfect for professionals seeking to optimize operations and achieve continuous improvement.

Discover the core responsibilities of automation leaders, including strategic decision-making, team development, project leadership, continuous innovation, and IT/OT collaboration. Learn how these roles drive success in modern manufacturing.

Explore the transformative power of industrial robotics in this comprehensive guide. Learn about robot types, key applications, programming languages, vendor comparisons, and future trends to make informed decisions for your automation needs. Perfect for technical experts and decision-makers alike.

A practical guide to digital transformation in manufacturing, covering assessment, goal-setting, technology selection, and sustainability. Drive efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness with actionable insights and visuals.

This in-depth guide explores the role of Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) in manufacturing, covering its key components, benefits, challenges, and the impact of digital tools like CMMS and IoT. Featuring real-world case studies and actionable strategies, it’s a must-read for decision-makers looking to optimize MRO practices and drive operational excellence.

Explore how Seekers Technical is revolutionizing automation for small and medium-sized manufacturers with cost-effective, tailored solutions. From modular robotics and AI-driven efficiencies to real-time data integration, learn how SMBs can leverage scalable automation to boost productivity, streamline operations, and drive growth in today’s competitive manufacturing landscape.

Discover how engineers can transition into successful business leaders, build impactful technical businesses, and leverage AI and private equity to drive innovation in manufacturing. Learn actionable strategies for aspiring engineer-entrepreneurs to navigate leadership and entrepreneurship.

Learn why engineering project management is critical to project success. Discover what makes it unique, the core goals you must achieve, and the essential skills needed to manage complex, high-stakes engineering initiatives.

Ignition 8.3 is a groundbreaking update from Inductive Automation, offering enhanced features like source control, real-time data streaming, and offline mode for remote applications. With these advancements, Ignition strengthens its position as a versatile, scalable solution for industrial automation, helping manufacturers bridge IT-OT gaps and unlock new efficiencies.

Learn how to modernize aging control systems in manufacturing without disrupting production. This in-depth guide covers risk assessment, legacy equipment challenges, cybersecurity, OEM obsolescence, and strategies for phased upgrades.

Edge computing is often misunderstood in industrial automation, with many questioning its necessity when PLCs can perform similar tasks. This article clarifies the role of edge solutions, detailing real-world applications, key decision factors, and lessons learned from deployments. While PLCs are essential for deterministic control, edge computing enhances data processing, scalability, and connectivity.

In this technical tutorial, we’re going to connect an Allen Bradley RSLogix / Studio 5000 based PLC to Ignition. With the popularity of the SCADA / MES platform from Inductive Automation, one of the first steps is to make sure that the data is flowing and we can read / write the tags we have on the PLC.

Manufacturers must embrace digital transformation to stay competitive. Solutions like IIoT, AI-driven analytics, MES, and cloud integration enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and improve decision-making. While many companies are still in early stages, those investing strategically in automation, predictive maintenance, and IT/OT convergence gain a significant edge. The key to success? A clear strategy, workforce alignment, and scalable technology adoption.

A comprehensive guide to navigating compliance challenges in manufacturing, this blog provides essential insights into risk assessment, regulatory frameworks, and strategic management. Discover how to transform compliance from a burden into a competitive advantage through practical strategies and emerging technologies.

This in-depth guide to industrial safety systems covers everything from machine guarding and safety relays to safety PLCs, risk assessments, and commissioning. Learn how to design, validate, and troubleshoot safety circuits that comply with ISO 13849, IEC 62061, and NFPA 79. Built for engineers, technicians, and integrators focused on safe, modern manufacturing environments.

Discover our Digital Transformation Readiness Checklist—a step-by-step guide for plant managers to assess and enhance technology, data practices, workforce skills, and process efficiency. Prioritize improvements and build a roadmap to drive impactful digital transformation in manufacturing.

Discover how engineering teams use structured tools, international standards, and proven best practices to manage complexity, control risk, and deliver high-quality projects on time and within budget.

The 5 Whys Root Cause Analysis (RCA) tool stems out of the lean six sigma approach and is used in factories across the globe to drive productivity in manufacturing.

Discover how MES systems embed quality into daily operations by enabling real-time inspections, full product traceability, structured non-conformance management, and audit-ready records — building trust and compliance from the ground up.

Master the art of Gemba walks by asking the right questions. Discover five essential questions that help leaders uncover hidden barriers, build trust, and drive real improvement on the shop floor.

Many desktop publishing their default model text, and a search for in infancy various versions

Many desktop publishing their default model text, and a search for in infancy various versions

Many desktop publishing their default model text, and a search for in infancy various versions

Many desktop publishing their default model text, and a search for in infancy various versions

Many desktop publishing their default model text, and a search for in infancy various versions

Many desktop publishing their default model text, and a search for in infancy various versions