Manufacturing and Warehouse IT News For VARs—July 23, 2014
By Trisha Leon, contributing writer
In the news this week, manufacturers have turned to digital metric screens to go lean; five trends are poised to shape the future of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP); and the National Association of Manufacturers is pleased following the House’s ruling on the Highway and Transportation Funding Act of 2014.
Digital Metric Screens Key To Going Lean
In Manufacturing Digital, Jody Hoffman, PR specialist at Noventri, explains how automation continues to play a key role in the evolution of lean strategies in the modern-day manufacturing plant. In her article, “Digital Metric Screens Offer Obvious Lean Solution,” Hoffman details how many manufacturing companies are using metric screens to reduce waste and meet demands for excellence in communication to promote an engaged and productive workforce. According to Hoffman, “When production workers and manufacturing personnel are 'in-the-know' and can clearly see current metrics and progress they are transferred into more efficient workers.” VARs can promote digital metric screens as a way for their clients to achieve Lean manufacturing initiatives and improve communications.
5 Trends Set To Impact ERP
Dan Matthews, writer for Industry Week, shares five trends that will shape the future of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP). Technological advancements are occurring at a pace never seen before. According to Matthews, “Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) in particular has a lot to gain from adopting an open approach to new innovations. The internet of Things (IoT), Big Data analytics, and wearable technology, along with other advancements can impact ERP, lending to businesses increased efficiency and productivity. VARs should encourage their clients to embrace new technologies in order to boost their profitability.
NAM Praises House’s “Swift Passage” Of H.R. 5021
National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) VP of Infrastructure, Legal and Regulatory Policy, Rosario Palmieri, released a statement regarding the House passage of H.R. 5021, the Highway and Transportation Funding Act of 2014. She stated, “Manufacturers commend the House for swift passage of H.R. 5021, which temporarily ends the uncertainty facing the Highway Trust Fund. This legislation is an important step in providing manufacturers with the stable and reliable infrastructure we need to efficiently move goods to market and compete in a global economy.” She adds that, though this is a positive step, “manufacturers will continue to make the case to policymakers that investing in infrastructure supports competitiveness, growth, and jobs.”
U.S. Economy Expected To Grow In Months Ahead
A release from Washington cited in Industrial Distribution says that a predictor of the economy’s future health increased in June for a fifth consecutive month. The Conference Board says its index of leading indicators rose 0.3 percent last month. That was slightly lower than forecasted, but the May increase was revised up to a 0.7 percent gain, a bit stronger than first estimated. Ken Goldstein, economist for the Conference Board said that increased consumer demand and job gains will accelerate economic growth into the second half of this year.
Manufacturing and Warehouse Talking Points
Registration is open for the IMTS – The International Manufacturing Technology Show 2014 Conference — which will run four days during IMTS, Sept. 8 – 11. America’s largest manufacturing show, IMTS will feature 1,900 exhibitors and 100,000 visitors and provides a forum for industry leaders and peers to come together to discuss fresh ideas that will enhance business and perspectives on overcoming day-to-day and long-range challenges.