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In regard to the relationship between big data and small business and why manufacturing data collection and cloud-based manufacturing systems are playing such vital roles in the success of today’s manufacturers, John Lloyd, President and CEO of MANTEC, had this to say:

“Technology is changing at a breakneck pace, and many manufacturers are not keeping up with it. We are creating awareness of that change and helping them take advantage of it.”

In that spirit, let’s take a closer look at how big data — the enormous, ever-growing volume of data that’s virtually impossible to process with traditional software and databases — can be both accessible and advantageous to small manufacturing businesses. As a small business owner or member of an operations or finance team, you’re likely well aware that your organization generates and collects big data regarding your products, production speed and customers on a daily basis.

What’s so interesting is that with the simultaneous rise of the smart factory and customer relationship management (CRM) systems, small manufacturing businesses are now poised to take advantage of big data collection and its many business applications. Consider that with the proliferation of connected devices, smart machines and the Internet of Things (IoT), it’s never been easier to integrate your shop floor with the latest manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software. This MRP software can provide you with actionable data on everything from inventory control and purchasing to product design and general accounting.

Unfortunately, hiring a fulltime data analyst is costly, which makes it well beyond the reach of most small businesses. The good news is that thanks to the recent rise in data analytics self-service options, you can unlock the customer data that any robust CRM system can collect.

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PA Broadband Assistance Program

For Pennsylvania’s small manufacturing businesses, a good way to begin to take advantage of big data collection and analysis is through the technical and intellectual help that’s right in front of them. The Keystone State is a leader in recognizing that technical support through services such as easily accessible broadband is vitally important to the health of its economy and small businesses.

For this reason, programs have been created so that manufacturers can receive free technical assistance when researching and resolving issues that pertain to endeavors such as implementing cloud-based manufacturing systems, securing access to real-time data and analyzing that data in order to glean actionable insights.

MANTEC has been providing numerous consulting services — including technical assistance — to thousands of South Central Pennsylvania’s manufacturers for more than three decades. In that time, we’ve helped small businesses grow and prosper by taking advantage of technology that can streamline everything from business processes to supply chain management. Now, with the advent of big data, there’s almost no limit to how much manufacturers can benefit from our services.

For more information on MANTEC and our various consulting services geared toward small manufacturing businesses, contact us today.

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