The internet is a vast space that is filled with rabbit holes, endless search results, and adorable cat videos that will consume your entire day in a flash. Finding the information and insights you need to improve productivity and efficiency at your facility can be daunting. Luckily, Plant Services is here to help. We search the web and curate the industry perspectives, trends, and topics that will affect you and your industry. Here are a few of our favorite stories from this week.

Three Mistakes To Avoid When Setting Up A Smart Factory [Forbes]
Smart factories and the technologies that support them are taking center stage. Manufacturers are lining up to reap the promised benefits of digital transformation and Industry 4.0, but only the savvy businesses that avoid the potential pitfalls will receive a return on their investment. This article highlights three mistakes manufacturers should avoid when beginning their digitalization journeys. 

The Road Ahead for OT Security [Manufacturing.Net]
Are you prioritizing the security of your operational technology (OT) assets? If you’re like most manufacturers, then the answer is no. With more and more OT systems being connected to the internet every day, the threat to these systems has never been greater. This article outlines the issues facing OT cybersecurity in 2023.

China’s Robots Can’t Do It All. They Need People [The Washington Post]
China, like most countries, is facing a skilled labor shortage that threatens to increase as time goes on. Their solution is to increase investment in robotics and automation technology. Unfortunately, robots need to be programmed, operated and maintained, and you need skilled workers to accomplish this. This opinion piece outlines the realities of China’s current situation.

Five Ways for Small Manufacturing Companies to Cut Costs and Stay Competitive [Finance Monthly]
Keeping costs low is a concern for every business, but small manufacturers are in a particularly precarious position. If they aren’t able to stay competitive, they might not be able to survive. This article highlights five methods manufacturers can employ to cut costs and how to utilize these savings to increase profitability.

Manufacturing, Sustainability And Profitability: How AI Can Make Us Greener [Forbes]
Are you investigating new ways to make your business more sustainable? Then it might be time to take a cold, hard look at your plant floor. Production inefficiencies and the waste they create are preventing many manufacturers from achieving their green goals. This article highlights how businesses can utilize new technologies to improve their operations while simultaneously reducing the company’s carbon footprint.