The growth of automation and digital technologies has transformed the manufacturing sector in Australia. As Industry 4.0 continues to evolve, the demand for crucial digital skills is skyrocketing. 

The Australian Government is fostering growth and innovation in the sector, prompting many companies to pivot towards digital skills to meet modern market demands and sustain their competitiveness.

The Surge in Digital Skills Demand

Digital skills such as data analytics, robotic engineering, and automation are becoming essential in the manufacturing industry. 

Businesses are increasingly investing in reskilling and upskilling their existing workforce while also recruiting new talent with relevant expertise. 

This trend is expected to continue as digital transformation accelerates.

State government initiative

The Northern Territory’s manufacturing sector is set for a boost as the Advanced Manufacturing Ecosystem Fund (AMEF) gains traction. The fund aims to accelerate the growth of advanced manufacturing capabilities in the region, fostering innovation and driving economic development.

Managed by the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC) in partnership with the NT Government, the fund provides targeted financial support to businesses and projects that demonstrate the potential to create high-value jobs and contribute to the Territory’s economic diversification.

Federal government support

The National Skills Agreement, launched on 1 January 2024, marks a five-year partnership between the Commonwealth, states, and territories aimed at strengthening the vocational education and training (VET) sector in Australia.

This agreement aims to deliver a national VET system that provides high-quality, responsive, and accessible education, boosting productivity and helping Australians gain skills for well-paid, secure jobs. TAFE institutions will be central to these efforts.

States and territories will receive up to $3.7 billion in additional Commonwealth funding over five years, increasing the total Commonwealth investment in VET to $12.6 billion.

Moreover, the Federal Government has established Jobs and Skills Councils, including one for the manufacturing sector. The Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance will focus on ensuring the industry has a skilled workforce to drive growth through advanced manufacturing and innovation, with a strong emphasis on digital skills training.

Industry Initiatives

Industry groups are actively advocating for the reskilling and upskilling of Australia’s manufacturing workforce. A July 2022 report by Ai Group’s Centre for Education & Training highlights the need for an education and training system that aligns with the changing skill requirements of Industry 4.0. 

The report includes a case study on Watkins Steel, demonstrating how heavy investment in staff skills development has been pivotal to the company’s successful digital transformation. Watkins Steel Director Des Watkins notes, “For every line of robotics commissioned, we have employed a further ten people…Robotics creates jobs. It doesn’t replace jobs.”

The road ahead

The push towards digital jobs in the manufacturing sector presents an opportunity for businesses and their workforce. 

Investing in digital skills and technology can make companies more efficient, productive, and competitive on a global scale. 

With government and industry bodies actively promoting upskilling, the future looks promising for Australia’s manufacturing sector.

The post Future-ready: Upskilling Australia’s manufacturing workforce appeared first on Australian Manufacturing.

As the manufacturing industry enters the third decade of the 21st century, enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions are increasingly becoming the backbone of modern manufacturing. 

In a whitepaper, Global Shop Solutions explained how flexible ERP software has evolved from a nice-to-have solution to a vital element for manufacturing companies seeking to not just survive but thrive. 

With the increasing complexity of supply chains, rising customer expectations and the relentless pace of technological advancements, manufacturers—not just in Australia but beyond—are finding themselves in need of ERP solutions that streamline processes and offer the flexibility to adapt to ever-changing business needs.

What are tailored ERPs?

While ERP systems are designed to provide a wide range of functionalities, they often fail to address the specific needs and challenges of individual manufacturing companies. 

Meanwhile, tailored ERP systems offer the flexibility and customisation required to adapt to unique business processes, ensuring that manufacturers can operate at peak efficiency.

For instance, a company facing the challenge of managing a paperless shop floor in a precision metal manufacturing environment can use custom ERP solutions to replace inefficient paper-based processes with digital workflows that leverage real-time data access and automated scripts. This transition not only streamlines operations but also reduces errors and increases productivity.

The 4 key benefits of tailored ERP solutions

According to the Global Shop Solutions‘ whitepaper, here are four key benefits of customized ERP systems that can transform manufacturing operations:

1. Enhanced operational efficiency: Custom ERP solutions significantly boost operational efficiency by streamlining workflows and reducing manual tasks. Tailored modifications allow manufacturers to customize existing screens, adding or removing functionalities to match specific needs. For example, by integrating various data sources into one interface, users can manage inventory, track production schedules, and oversee quality control from a single dashboard.
2. Smart scheduling and automation: Custom ERP solutions can be configured to automate reports, workflow processes, and other routine tasks, freeing up valuable time for employees to focus on higher-priority activities.
3. Personalised dashboard: Customizable dashboards empower employees at all levels to make informed decisions quickly. Whether it is a shop floor manager monitoring production output or an executive reviewing financial performance, personalized dashboards ensure that everyone has access to the information they need, presented in a format that is easy to understand and actionable.
4. Robust data security: Tailored ERP systems offer enhanced data security through the use of business data objects—self-contained software entities that manage data and functions. This approach ensures that the manipulation and access of data are insulated from changes to underlying data structures, reducing the risk of data corruption or loss.

By conducting data operations through these secure objects, tailored ERP solutions provide a robust framework for maintaining data integrity and compliance with industry regulations.

The role of ERP in manufacturing

ERP systems have undoubtedly become integral to managing various facets of manufacturing, from inventory control and supply chain management to production scheduling and customer relationships. These systems have enabled manufacturers to achieve greater efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall productivity.

However, as the complexity of manufacturing operations continues to grow, the need for tailored ERP solutions becomes increasingly evident.

To explore how tailored ERP solutions can transform manufacturing operations, download the whitepaper from Global Shop Solutions at globalshopsolutions.com.

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The construction industry has undergone significant transformation over the past twenty years. Speedpanel, a leading Australian manufacturer of lightweight, fire-rated, and acoustic wall systems, made a groundbreaking entrance in the early ’90s, revolutionising the Australian construction landscape.

Over the next couple of decades, Speedpanel systems have become among the most certified and trusted in the industry, widely adopted across Australia. In line with this growth, the company has always placed the highest emphasis on ensuring that its clients receive the very best customer journey and experience. 

Commitment to improvement

Peter Lorenc, Speedpanel’s National Sales and Marketing Manager, emphasised, “Our commitment to continuous improvement is ingrained in our DNA and culture. We have always strived to do things better and smarter, and this focus has driven our success.” 

With a well-established presence in the Australian market, Speedpanel continues to focus on internal transformation and scaling. The company is investing in digitising its manufacturing workflow to enhance efficiency.  “We are in the process of improving our back-of-office functions so we can continue to innovate and offer an industry-best customer experience.”

Central to this initiative is the adoption of SugarCRM, a Customer Relationship Management system traditionally used for sales and marketing, now critical in optimising engineering and manufacturing processes. By leveraging SugarCRM, Speedpanel has streamlined workflows, resulting in faster and more efficient operations.

Centralised project management 

In the steel and engineering sectors, effective collaboration among engineers, designers, and clients is crucial. Previously reliant on disparate systems for project tracking, Speedpanel has transitioned to using SugarCRM as its centralised project management hub.

“Sugar is now our project information oracle,” said Lorenc. “With Sugar, everyone can see what stage a project is in and view related documents and meeting notes.” The result is a smoother and faster project management process. “The faster we get, the happier our customers become,” he added.

Accurate forecasting

Accurate forecasting of raw material requirements is critical in an industry with extended lead times. By leveraging data from SugarCRM, Speedpanel now forecasts material needs more precisely and places orders well in advance. “There are sometimes two to three-month lead times on materials, so we need to work ahead,” Lorenc explained. “Sugar has made us smarter when it comes to procurement. We can see what materials we are going to need and by when on one dashboard.”

Digitising compliance checks

Ensuring compliant installation of fire-rated Speedpanel walls is not just a safety imperative but also a legal requirement.  Speedpanel assists with compliance by offering complementary installation reviews. Previously, this involved a project manager visiting construction sites and manually documenting installation notes for later reporting.

Now, the company is developing a real-time installation review process using SugarCRM. “We’re implementing a process that enables us to do near real-time installation reviews and feedback,” Lorenc shared.

“We can take photos, use AI to help populate commentary around corrective requirements, and give this information to subcontractors right away.” This innovation is expected to significantly boost internal efficiency and enhance the customer experience.

Innovation and growth through digital transformation

Looking ahead, Speedpanel aims to continue its growth trajectory by leveraging CRM technology for improved real-time visibility and enhanced customer communication.

“We’re taking a leadership role in the way we offer our services,” said Lorenc. “By using a CRM, we can provide features that are commonplace in B2C, like customer portals, in the B2B space. This opens the door for future growth and improvement of customer experience.”

_{The content of this article is based on information supplied by SugarCRM.} 

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Sponsored Content by KPMG

For business leaders in the Australian manufacturing industry, digital transformation is not just a buzzword—it is a necessity to stay ahead and maintain a competitive edge in operational efficiency. 

However, enhancing productivity is not the only end goal of this crucial transformation. Digital technologies also play a pivotal role in enhancing manufacturing sustainability initiatives.

One significant step in this direction is adopting advanced enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems like SAP S/4HANA, according to KPMG. Designed to enable real-time monitoring of sustainable metrics—like energy consumption, water usage, and waste generation—this next-generation ERP solution aims to empower manufacturers to streamline operations, meet regulatory requirements, and respond to increasing demand for sustainable practices.

Sustainability and efficiency with S/4HANA

William Servaes, lead for logistics and supply chain transformation at KPMG Belgium, highlighted the importance of a scalable IT landscape for businesses facing increasing pressure from regulators and the public to meet environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) goals.

To access this much-needed scalability, manufacturers tap into advanced ERP systems that offer a comprehensive view of various sustainability metrics, such as energy consumption, carbon emissions, and waste management. This enables them to make informed decisions to optimise their processes, reduce resource consumption, and minimise environmental impact. Consequently, it also enhances brand reputation among increasingly eco-conscious consumers.

Real-time data also allows for a more agile and responsive production process, enabling manufacturers to quickly adapt to market changes and innovate their product offerings. 

KPMG’s expertise in transformation

KPMG’s extensive network of SAP consultants provides the necessary expertise to guide manufacturers through the transition to SAP S/4HANA. 

Through its Powered Enterprise approach, KPMG aims to help businesses define a clear transformation strategy, streamline their operations, and maximise the benefits of the new ERP system. This holistic support ensures that the transition is not just a technical upgrade but a comprehensive business improvement.

For Australian manufacturing leaders, transitioning to SAP S/4HANA is a strategic move that enhances both sustainability and operational efficiency. It offers manufacturers the tools they need to meet today’s challenges and prepare for tomorrow’s opportunities. 

Placing the focus on sustainability and operational efficiency may be the first step toward positioning Australia as a leader in the global manufacturing market, driving innovation and growth while contributing positively to environmental and social goals. 

The journey towards sustainability and operational excellence is ongoing, and transitioning from SAP ECC to S/4HANA is a pivotal step. 

Equipped with a next-generation solution, you can harness the power of real-time analytics, increase productivity, and drive innovation—all while upholding the highest standards of sustainability. 

To read more about the advantages of this transition, access KPMG’s whitepaper, “Flexible and future-proof with S/4HANA” here. Learn more at KPMG.com/au/PoweredSAP.

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Sponsored Content by KPMG

With a rapidly evolving market, Aussie manufacturers are faced with the urgent need to adopt the latest technologies to optimise their operations and stay competitive. One critical element in this digital transformation journey is the use of advanced Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems.

ERP systems have been the backbone of manufacturing operations over the last two decades, supporting everything from financial reporting to supply chain management. Over time, these systems have evolved from basic information tools into comprehensive strategic resources that provide a competitive edge.

The introduction of SAP S/4HANA is one example of a significant advancement in this evolution, positioning ERP systems to be even more integral to business success.

A new engine for transformation

SAP S/4HANA is an ERP solution designed to be a much faster version of its predecessor, SAP ECC. This next-generation software offers greater flexibility, faster processing times, and more robust data management capabilities by leveraging the latest technologies available, such as Internet of Things, blockchain, advanced analytics and artificial intelligence.

In a whitepaper, KPMG International Consulting Director, Dominique Moons explained: “The biggest difference compared to the previous software generation is that S/4HANA is much more flexible. Data is stored, managed and made accessible differently. This not only makes S/4HANA significantly faster than older ERP solutions but also gives organizations better control over the management information that exists within the organization. 

One of the standout features of S/4HANA is its ability to process data in real time. In the past, generating reports was a time-consuming process, often requiring overnight data processing. With S/4HANA, reports can be generated instantly, significantly enhancing decision-making capabilities. 

When to make the switch?

Support for the SAP Business Suite, which also includes SAP ECC, will halt in 2027. However, according to KPMG, the decision to migrate from SAP ECC to S/4HANA should be driven by more than just the impending 2027 support deadline for ECC. 

Migrating to S/4HANA goes beyond just updating software. It is about harmonizing, standardizing, and simplifying business processes. This transition can enable manufacturers to move away from fragmented ERP landscapes with multiple software solutions and complex customisations to a more streamlined and cohesive system. 

KPMG Powered Enterprise

To help manufacturers maximise the benefits of an S/4HANA migration, KPMG offers its Powered Enterprise for SAP, a result-oriented transformation solution that combines KPMG’s expertise with SAP ERP implementations and business transformations. 

Powered Enterprise is designed to enable organisations to tap into predictable results, reduce risks, and maintain high implementation speed and quality.

By following a proven methodology, manufacturers can ensure that their S/4HANA migration not only updates their ERP system but also drives substantial business transformation. This approach includes comprehensive change management strategies to support users throughout the transition, ensuring that they are comfortable with the new system and processes.

Dive deeper into the transformative potential of migrating to SAP S/4HANA through KPMG’s whitepaper titled “Flexible and future-proof with S/4HANA.” Learn more at KPMG.com/au/PoweredSAP.

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Sponsored Content by KPMG

Manufacturers are responding to the low-growth environment by focusing on digitisation, ESG and portfolio reshaping, transforming into more digital, resilient, and sustainable organisations.

The manufacturing sector faces numerous disruptions. However, there are also promising trends such as the adoption of automation and digital technology, growing energy and power demand, and increased infrastructure and transportation needs.

As a result, manufacturing companies are prioritising their efforts in areas such as supply networks, research and development, sales, services, sustainability, and digitisation of business operations.

Central to this are optimised and future-fit core systems, including SAP. The need to upgrade existing SAP ECC systems to S/4HANA and leveraging this process to drive business outcomes is front of mind for many manufacturing businesses.

Typical questions such as the right SAP architecture, migration and ‘cloud’ or ‘on-premise’ give the impression this is a technology project, but this is not the case.

At KPMG, we take a business-led, technology-enabled approach ensuring our clients don’t just migrate – they accelerate their SAP migration with confidence, enabling future business growth.

Enabled by our deep sector expertise, SAP global practice and best-practice process and functional operating model assets, our KPMG Powered Enterprise enabled by SAP provides a holistic approach to your business transformation.

Learn more

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Ampcontrol is bolstering its expansion plans with the appointment of Victoria Aspden as Executive General Manager for Digital & Transformation.

Bringing over two decades of experience in technology and transformation leadership, Aspden is poised to lead the charge in digital innovation and operational enhancement at Ampcontrol, the company said in a media release.

Having held senior roles at institutions such as Great Southern Bank, Colonial First State, and Commonwealth Bank, Victoria’s appointment underscores Ampcontrol’s commitment to driving technological advancement and meeting evolving industry demands.

Rod Henderson, managing director and CEO of Ampcontrol, highlighted the strategic importance of Aspden’s appointment in driving the company forward into a new phase of technological excellence and customer-focused innovation.

“We’re delighted to welcome Victoria to the Ampcontrol team. As we continue to evolve and adapt to meet the needs of the rapidly changing industry landscape, Victoria’s proven track record in leading business transformations and implementing cutting-edge customer-centric digital technologies will be an asset in accelerating our growth strategy and ensuring we remain at the forefront of innovation,” remarked Henderson.

In her role, Aspden will also focus on implementing innovative digital solutions and modernising operational practices to enhance efficiency and elevate the overall customer experience.

She will lead cross-functional teams in executing strategic transformation initiatives aimed at driving sustainable growth.

“I am thrilled to join Ampcontrol at such a transformative time in the company’s long-standing history,” expressed Aspden.

“Ampcontrol has a strong reputation for delivering world-leading innovative solutions to its customers. To be part of taking Ampcontrol to the next level through the power of digital technology is a privilege, I look forward to driving even greater value for our customers and stakeholders,” she remarked.

According to the company, the new appointment also marks a significant stride towards diversity and inclusion within Ampcontrol’s leadership ranks, as she becomes the third female senior executive within the organisation.

“Victoria brings a wealth of leadership and transformational experience to our senior executive team joining like-minded problem solvers and people leaders who are challenging the status quo in our vision to lead the global energy revolution,” added Henderson.

Victoria Aspden assumed her role at Ampcontrol in April 2024.

The post Ampcontrol welcomes Victoria Aspden as digital transformation head appeared first on Australian Manufacturing.

As innovations transform today’s global industrial landscape, it is becoming more apparent to Australian manufacturers that they can no longer afford to be caught off guard by emerging trends or technological breakthroughs. The ability to adapt to manufacturing’s “next big thing” is no longer a competitive advantage but a survival necessity.

To remain competitive, profitable, and sustainable, manufacturers must learn how to navigate reliable supply chains, fluctuating economic conditions, and intense global competition. 

A whitepaper published by Global Shop Solutions highlighted the pivotal changes for Australian manufacturers looking to thrive now and well into the future. 

Increased automation

Previously, when the market environment was more stable, manufacturers could focus on optimising internal factors, such as workforce efficiency, production processes, and business models, to drive success. They zeroed in on enhancing operations and streamlining workflows in a bid to boost productivity and cut costs. 

As today’s industrial landscape demands a more agile and comprehensive approach, manufacturers are faced with the need to shift their focus beyond internal optimisation and include rapid technological changes, such as artificial intelligence and Internet of Things. 

However, Global Shop Solutions’ whitepaper warned against adopting automation technologies simply because they are the latest trend. It is crucial to develop a strategy that aligns automation with the broader business and operational goals of the organisation. 

Making smarter decisions

Business intelligence, also known as big data, provides manufacturers with a comprehensive picture of their operations, from supply chain logistics to customer preferences. Access to actionable information enables business leaders to anticipate market trends, adapt to customers more swiftly, and optimise their operations for enhanced productivity and reduced waste. 

This kind of analysis has become increasingly sophisticated thanks in no small part to enhancements in enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. ERP providers continually add new features and functionalities that enable manufacturers to customize how they view and leverage big data. These advancements include tailored ERP solutions, the integration of dashboards, and data flow automation. 

Prioritising environmental responsibility

As the world’s consumers gain more environmental awareness and governments impose stricter regulations, sustainability is becoming a key focus for the Australian manufacturing sector. 

This push towards sustainable manufacturing involves integrating practices that minimise waste, maximise resource efficiency, and develop products with their entire lifecycle in mind. 

Adopting sustainable practices in manufacturing can be challenging but the benefits are substantial. Manufacturers who successfully reduce their carbon footprint enhance their brand and attract customers who value sustainability. 

Fostering innovation within the manufacturing industry not only prepares manufacturers for the immediate challenges of a rapidly evolving market; it also positions Australia as a leader in a sustainable and technologically advanced manufacturing future. 

To learn more about the “5 Changes Manufacturers are Making Today and for Tomorrow,” visit globalshopsolutions.com. 

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Manufacturing, mining, utilities, and heavy industry professionals are set to converge at the Adelaide Convention Centre for the ROKLive 2024 event, hosted by Rockwell Automation.

Scheduled to run from 30 July 30 to 1 August, ROKLive 2024 aims to offer an immersive experience featuring a comprehensive program tailored to address the needs of the manufacturing sector, the tech giant said in a news release.

With over 80 sessions spanning six thematic streams, attendees can expect to delve into cutting-edge topics and engage in hands-on lab sessions designed to bring concepts to life.

“Manufacturers are increasingly turning to automation to boost productivity, sustainability, and ROI,” affirmed Anthony Wong, regional director, South Pacific, Rockwell Automation.

“Businesses now have higher expectations from their automation investments and will seek out better-performing solutions that deliver higher levels of productivity,” he added.

ROKLive 2024 aims to equip participants with business-critical insights and practical solutions to navigate their automation journey effectively.

From AI integration to machine performance optimisation, attendees will gain invaluable knowledge and actionable strategies to drive operational efficiency, empower their workforce, foster sustainability, enhance resilience, and accelerate digital transformation.

Key highlights of ROKLive 2024 include an inspiring keynote address by Steve Vamos, renowned for his leadership roles at Apple, Xero, Microsoft, and Telstra.

Drawing upon his vast experience, Vamos will delve into fostering innovation in a rapidly evolving landscape.

The event will cover a spectrum of topics including artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and operational efficiency improvements.

Additionally, hands-on labs will provide attendees with firsthand experience in leveraging emerging technologies to optimize business operations.

Moreover, ROKLive 2024 will offer ample networking opportunities, allowing participants to exchange ideas and forge connections within a vibrant community of industry professionals.

Registration and other details can be found here.

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Sponsored Content for SugarCRM

Digital transformation technologies are experiencing a gold rush in the manufacturing industry, not just in Australia but beyond. However, amid this surge in cutting-edge tech and automation processes, a fundamental element remains crucial: trust.

Trust serves as the cornerstone of any successful industrial digital transformation. After all, even the most sophisticated tools can fall short of their potential if stakeholders are reluctant to embrace them. 

In an exclusive interview with Australian Manufacturing, SugarCRM Chief Product Officer Paul Farrell shared insights into how their solutions actively shape the future of customer interactions.

Let the platform do the work

As modern companies aim to stay competitive in an ever-evolving industrial landscape, understanding and leveraging generative artificial intelligence becomes an urgent necessity. This goal has been why SugarCRM invested heavily in GenAI and collaborated with customers to optimize the use of the technology.

“Across AI, in general, we look at how it both advises and assists users in their daily tasks so they can focus on the right tasks and deliver the utmost value,” Farrell said.

One of the key areas where SugarCRM employs generative AI is the intelligent summarization of vast amounts of data generated from customer interactions. This capability enables users to quickly grasp the status of an account, understand the underlying sentiment, and determine necessary actions to serve customers better.

Data privacy

Generative AI is revolutionising industries by enhancing efficiency and personalisation, but as Farrell points out, this rapid adoption comes with significant privacy concerns from clients.

“Some customers highlighted that they were already seeing users adopt tools like ChatGPT, without seeking approval from IT. Since company data includes many of the things that separate a business from their peers, and customer data contains PII (personal identifiable information) which is often regulated, it’s understandable that IT leaders need to ensure that information stays private,” the SugarCRM chief product officer noted.

To address this concern, SugarCRM has developed a robust, multi-layered approach to secure data in the age of AI. This enables the CRM developer to ensure that their customers can safely navigate the complexities of modern technological landscapes, staying competitive while upholding stringent data security standards. 

Humanizing automation

The core of digital transformation should not merely revolve around the technology itself but its capability to enhance human interactions. This perspective is crucial in an industry often criticized for losing the human touch amid the rush towards automation and efficiency. 

Farrell emphasised that optimizing person-to-person collaboration has always been a core component of what SugarCRM does. 

The company aims to drive trust by providing customers with a comprehensive view of their operations by gathering information from every customer interaction— whether during the sales process or extracted from deep within the company’s ERP system. This allows customers to ensure that they always have the most accurate, up-to-date information. 

Looking forward, Farrell said SugarCRM is committed to remaining at the forefront of CRM technology and continually integrating the latest advancements to benefit its users. 

“Looking at our history of Open Source, browser experience, cloud, mobile, business Intelligence, AI & ML and more recently gen AI. We have and always will provide technology that delivers competitive edge that can be easily consumed and trusted by our customers,” he noted.

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