Navigating the digital transformation of manufacturing

The world changed on Jan. 26, 1983. A small software startup named Lotus Development Corp. launched a little program called Lotus 1-2-3, changing the way control aficionados see the world. 

It wasn’t the first spreadsheet software, but it quickly became the most popular. Managers who relied on research departments to get charts showing the performances of various divisions found that they could process the data. With the ability to visually process huge data sets, metrics became an integral part of running departments and entire corporations. Within a few years, the concept of tracking on paper seemed dangerously antiquated. 

The industrial world appears to be on the cusp of a very similar transformation with the growth of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Industry 4.0. Data sets that once had to be collected manually from each machine, or compiled from pen and paper by operators, now can flow directly to centralized management systems – giving shop floor supervisors and CEOs the critical data they need to make good decisions. 

Connected-machine technology is evolving quickly, so getting up-to-date guidance from industry experts is critical to navigating this industrial future. Hannover Fairs USA, the U.S. wing of HANNOVER MESSE, is co-locating five trade shows with The International Manufacturing Technology Show – IMTS 2016: 

• ComVac North America – The show will highlight product developments,technology, and plant and system components for compressed air and vacuum systems.
• Surface Technology North America – The event will cover the spectrum of industrial surface treatment and finishing – cleaning and pre-treatment to coatings, paint finishes, and electroplating.
• Motion, Drive, & Automation North America – On display will be the latest technologies and solutions in power transmission, motion control, and fluid technology.
• Industrial Automation North America – Building on a successful year in 2014, the show will feature cutting-edge in factory, process, and building automation.
• Industrial Supply North America – The event will cover major topics in the worlds of industrial subcontracting and lightweight construction.

In conjunction with those shows, Hannover Fairs USA will host the Integrated Industries Conference on Sept. 13, 2016, to help guide visitors on this changing landscape. In addition to discussions of data integration, IIoT, and Industry 4.0, attendees will have a chance to learn about surface finishing technologies and motion, drives, and automation. 

Advanced data systems are transforming manufacturing, and the Integrated Industries Conference will provide needed insights and context on how to guide your organization’s future. 

Sincerely, 

Robert Schoenberger

Editor

rschoenberger@gie.net