The manufacturing industry is undergoing a transformation driven by rapid technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, and evolving regulatory frameworks. Manufacturers everywhere face unprecedented challenges as they seek to remain competitive, profitable, and sustainable in the face of unreliable supply chains, uncertain economies, and global competition.

When times were more stable, manufacturers focused primarily on their people, processes, and business models to sustain success. These key elements remain a foundation for any manufacturing enterprise. Yet by themselves they’re no longer enough to maintain success over the long term.

The complexity of the current manufacturing world is forcing companies to respond in ways that go far beyond traditional elements. This article examines five areas where manufacturing businesses are making changes that enable them to generate significant improvements in data management and forecasting. These changes include broader adoption of automation, more emphasis on business intelligence, protecting company data, implementing sustainability initiatives, and future-proofing their business.

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