Accelerating digitalization

This level of performance requires the collection of more real-time data and analytics that drives the need for more computational processing at or near the factory floor. Edge-cloud computing ensures that critical processing or real-time data is easily and quickly available closest to where the functions are utilized. It also drives the need for reliable, secure broadband connectivity that can be delivered with a 5G private wireless network throughout the entire manufacturing campus operation. Now, with high-speed, low latency mobile access available everywhere to handle IoT sensor traffic, production data, machine-to-machine, machine-to-human communications and more, new applications, tools and capabilities become rapidly available to the manufacturer.

Performance enhancing tools like digital twins/digital threads, high-definition video for real-time quality inspection and more are all “on the table” for manufacturers when a 5G network foundation of connectivity is in place. With a constant flow of real-time data and automated controls throughout the operation you will know how you are performing, and your operation can adjust to meet the performance targets you need to achieve.

In a recent 2022 survey by Nokia and ABI Research, manufacturers indicated that the biggest benefits they achieved from the acceleration of their digital transformation included productivity enhancements and business continuity during the pandemic. While these two significant benefits stand out, there are many more advantages to digitalization for the manufacturer as detailed below.

Changing customer and marketplace dynamics, the drive for more sustainable operations, and the impacts from outside influences on the global supply chain have made it clear that improved resiliency for global logistics and supply chain management is needed. Digitalization holds the key to addressing resiliency needs and more to help realize the Supply Chain 4.0 future. Warehouses and logistics operations can use new digitalization tools to dramatically improve automation and bring agility and intelligence to operations. Tools like AI, IoT and data analytics, and functions like real-time end-to-end asset tracking, flexible capacity planning and efficient materials handling are possible with increased digitalization in the warehouse.

The intelligence designed into the operation through this digital transformation also brings the ability to manage the supply chain, and optimize for sustainability ensuring better CO2 management. The right foundation is needed to support a fully automated warehouse and to handle the massive amounts of real-time data across the Supply Chain 4.0 operation. 5G is the critical connectivity foundation that is essential to ensuring the maximum benefits and objectives are achieved from the transformation project. With ultra-low latencies, high-bandwidth and pervasive wireless connectivity delivered everywhere, 5G supports the operation as it leverages the new tools of Industry 4.0 digitalization.