What is Digitalization?

The phrases “digitization,” “digitalization,” and “digital transformation” are often used interchangeably. However, there are some key differences to note. Digitalization refers to a strategic, digital approach to modern business. Whereas, digital transformation is a broader term referring to the process of integrating digital technology into all aspects of a business in order to better connect with customers, improve efficiency, and create new opportunities.

These are critical strategies for any organization aiming to remain competitive in the digital landscape of Industry 4.0.

Benefits of Digitalization

Data-based Insight

Making the switch to digital makes it possible to track, analyze, and collect data using a simple system. This is essential for helping with well-informed decision-making when it comes to company plans.

Bring in New Talent

Recruit and retain the next generation of engineers who will use new digital manufacturing technologies to enhance processes, boost efficiency, and bring Industry 4.0 into maturity.

Reduce Operating Costs

Gain a better knowledge of problems such as inventory levels, delivery status, and demand cycles by using real-time data. Improve decision-making by reducing risks and expenses related to excess inventory and material.

Empower Productivity

Greater awareness of industrial processes opens up potential for innovation. Digitalization has increased manufacturing efficiency by enabling companies to more thoroughly review all production processes and spot issues.

Improve Efficiency

Using automated data solutions in place of manual procedures can help you run your business more efficiently, make better decisions, make performance monitoring easier, and test new ideas before implementing them.

Industrial Digitalization Technologies

The Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things (IoT) is an emergent trend that connects everyday objects with the internet. These devices collect data and send it back to the cloud where it can be analyzed. This allows companies to make better decisions and improve efficiency.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Early AI adopters use practical Machine Learning (ML) solutions to provide commercial value. As this technology has advanced, organizations now use Deep Neural Networks (DNN) to plan ahead and prepare solutions in advance of new company demands arising.

delmia digital manufacturing software

Robotics

Robotics are becoming increasingly common in factories across the globe. They’re being used to perform tasks that were previously done manually, such as welding, painting, and assembly. This means that workers can focus on higher value activities instead of repetitive tasks.

Autonomous Vehicles

Low level autonomous vehicles can help reduce driver error, while higher levels of autonomy have the potential to reduce risky and dangerous driver behaviors. Mass automation of our transportation systems may lead to a substantial reduction in traffic congestion and pollution.

3DEXPERIENCE Cloud

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is one of the biggest trends in tech today. It’s a model where companies rent out computing power rather than buying it outright. This means that instead of having to purchase expensive hardware, software, and maintenance, businesses can pay as they go.

internet of things

Nanotechnology

There is a wide variety of applications for nanotechnology, due to the broad range of nanomaterials. Most commonly, carbon nanotubes are used in many industries for manufacturing extremely lightweight products with high wear resistance and break strength.

biovia lab

Biotechnology

Biotech products and manufacturing processes are advancing rapidly. This is particularly evident in the pharmaceutical industry. Examples include 3D-printing of human tissue, and the use of enzymes and microorganisms to manufacture a wide variety of products from textiles to biofuels.

3D Printing for metal parts

Additive Manufacturing

3D printing can either be done using the additive manufacturing method which involves building up layers of material, or by cutting from a bigger block of material in subtractive techniques. These are each more sustainable methods as they reduce the amount of material waste.

Want to speak to an expert?

Why not discuss your project in more detail with one of our local support team.

Make an Enquiry