Industry 4.0, the operating philosophy that integrates numerous cutting-edge technologies with the fundamental processes of heavy industry, has undeniably been on the upswing for the last several years. Data from Qurate Research projects that between 2018 and 2025, the global value of the Industry 4.0 market will rise from $68.1 billion to $205.2 billion – a sizable compound annual growth rate of 17.06%.
It must be noted that most economic predictions are in flux due to the current uncertainties of the worldwide economy caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, including those surrounding the manufacturing sector. However, there is notable evidence to suggest that Industry 4.0 may not merely withstand such difficulties, but in fact be in a position to thrive in the not-too-distant future. The leaders and professionals capable of spearheading cutting-edge manufacturing initiatives in volatile market conditions are not always simple to find – which is why you enlist the help of an expert YES Partners recruitment consultant.
Unity between IT and OT
For many years, computer operations in manufacturing were starkly delineated by whether they were contributing to information technology (IT) or operational technology (OT). The former required often-massive hardware and expansive software to handle the vast stores of data necessary for a facility's various data transactions, while the latter could be faster and more compact as it focused on the simple but essential act of controlling equipment and machines in real time.
According to Forbes, these strains of manufacturing tech are typically connected to share data but didn't really work in tandem – until recently. Networks, software, devices (mobile and otherwise), radio frequency identification (RFID) tagging, applications and workflow methodologies for IT and OT can increasingly be compatible like never before. This creates opportunities for more streamlined and efficient operations throughout a facility, and is the epitome of what the Industry 4.0. philosophy represents.
The power of digital workflow adoption
There is no denying the scope of the current crisis from either a public health or socioeconomic perspective. But while every industry will have been changed somehow in the aftermath of COVID-19, after the curve flattens, manufacturing firms will have a distinct advantage if they've adopted the practices and tools of Industry 4.0 or if they begin doing so once operations slowly resume. Keypoint Intelligence noted that more entrenched automation can allow for a more limited staff to handle operations while observing the social-distancing protocols recommended by public health experts to increase safety. Similarly, remote-desktop systems and even remote machine operations are possible with Industry 4.0, according to The Manufacturer, and alongside other automated measures, can help mitigate the need for staffing cuts.
Recruitment consultants at YES Partners are eminently qualified to find the bold, visionary professionals necessary to ensure success in the exciting but undeniably complex landscape that is Industry 4.0. To see some of the roles that we have already successfully placed, click here.
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