Artificial intelligence is set to transform the manufacturing industry, as it becomes an integral part of operations. Here are the top five AI trends that manufacturers should keep in mind to stay ahead of the curve, according to Nishanth Vallabhu, an SBU Leader at Cognizant.
1. AI will drive smarter problem-solving and decision-making
Manufacturers are beginning to use AI in even more areas of their organizations, evolving from being only used for basic tasks such as monitoring, reporting and for isolated use cases, to being used for problem-solving and decision-making.
For example, AI can help manufacturers anticipate supply chain disruptions by simulating potential risks based on real-time data, enabling them to proactively mitigate disruptions.
2. Generative AI will make technology more user-friendly
While traditional AI helps with shop floor operations, generative AI will enable workers to better access the benefits of these technologies. Generative AI can transform large data sets into interactive, user-friendly visuals, allowing employees to easily interpret information.
By providing an engagement layer on top of the disparate systems and AI models, Generative AI can demystify technical complexities for workers. In turn, this will empower workers to make more informed decisions and improve processes such as predictive maintenance and quality control.
3. Evolving required skillsets will transform job roles
AI is increasingly taking on the menial tasks workers spend much of their time on, freeing them up to focus on higher-value, strategic activities. As this shift continues, it will redefine manufacturing job roles, with employees requiring skills which enable them to collaborate effectively with emerging technologies.
While workers won’t need to become data scientists, they will need to learn how to work with data and make use of AI to solve problems.
4. Generative AI will boost sustainability efforts
Sustainability has become a critical consideration for both regulators and consumers, with businesses increasingly being held accountable for the sustainability of their entire supply chains. Many manufacturers will therefore have to showcase strong sustainability credentials to maintain and attract business.
As a result, sustainability reporting has become crucial for manufacturers, yet it is often resource intensive. Generative AI is poised to simplify and streamline this process, automating complex, data-intensive reporting methods.
It can also be used to run simulations and compare the sustainability impact of different scenarios and alternatives. In turn, manufacturers will be able to more effectively track, report and demonstrate their sustainability efforts to meet growing expectations.
5. Data will take center stage as demand for servitization grows
Historically, manufacturing has focused on production efficiency and quality control over customer engagement. However, as manufacturers shift toward a servitization model, offering ongoing services throughout a product’s lifecycle, rather than just selling a standalone product, they will need to analyze product usage and performance data more extensively.
AI will enable manufacturers to generate new revenue streams by providing additional services such as maintenance and predictive analytics, keeping customers engaged long after the initial product exits the factory.
The road ahead
We’re likely to see AI-driven changes to the manufacturing landscape, as the job requirements of workers change and the servitization model grows in popularity. The potential for AI to transform manufacturing is vast, and the manufacturers who can readily adapt to these trends will be better equipped to stay competitive and resilient in a rapidly changing industry.