To stay abreast of industry trends, we, the editors, read countless articles and editorials written by experts from across verticals. We're always learning more about the people, technologies, and events that are making waves in the manufacturing space, and we want to share this information with you. In this brief, we’ll cite our sources and highlight columns and features that can help improve uptime at your plant. 

Automation 

Robots Need Human Labor Management [Foundry]
The overexaggerated feat that robots will soon replace workers on the plant floor seems to be subsiding, and in its place is the understanding that robots are filling the dangerous, repetitive, and least-desirable jobs in the industry. Robots are helping humans aspire to new positions where their powers of leadership, reasoning, and understanding can be put to good use. This article explores the symbiotic relationship between humans and robots, and the importance of labor management technologies.

Management 

Welcome to the ESG Evolution [EHS Today]
The relationship between environment, health and safety (EHS) and environmental, social and governance (ESG) is a hot topic for many industry executives. These two policies, although always important, are becoming key components of many organizations’ overall business strategies. This article outlines the benefits and challenges of fostering a partnership between EHA and ESG.

Safety and Security 

Going beyond dust hazard analysis [Processing]
Dust explosion protection is an important concern for many agricultural and food processing facilities, but completing a dust hazard analysis (DHA) is only the first step. Complying with NFPA 61 involves developing and implementing an action plan as well as selecting the right equipment. This article showcases how processing plants can minimize the risk of combustible dust explosions.  

Technology 

Digital Transformation on a Small-Business Budget: It Can Be Done [Industry Week]
There is a misconception that digital transformation is only possible for large companies with limitless resources at their disposal. Many believe that investing in Industry 4.0 initiatives will cost millions of dollars up front for new plants and state-of-the-art equipment. Luckily, a gradual, step-by-step approach to digitalization is available for most manufacturers. This article explains how small- and medium-sized manufacturers can implement Industry 4.0 strategies at their facilities without breaking the bank.  

Workforce

Considering the human factor within the digitalization of manufacturing [Smart Industry]
Implementing a digitalization strategy at your facility is about more than purchasing the latest and greatest technology. Without the right people and processes in place to help you analyze, interpret, and utilize the gathered data, your smart manufacturing dreams will stay elusive. This article highlights why smart factories need smart people to run them.