Blog Post

How Has COVID Changed Manufacturing?

Jul 25, 2022
3 Men on Manufacturing floor with COVID Virus Overlayed

We are moving past COVID -19, but the impact on manufacturing has been significant. The ability of manufacturers to adapt to new technology and cloud-based solutions has been helpful. in addition, they need to be able to automate processes quickly to adapt to change.

Automation:

There has never been a better time to build better products faster. Automation allows manufacturers to improve collaboration, increase yields, and find problems sooner by automating the manufacturing process.


How do manufacturers identify solutions for automation and how do they know when to invest in the technology? That is a great question. Investing in automation is costly, so identifying the highest priority processes is key to driving innovation forward on the manufacturing floor. Where does the manufacturing process bottleneck? What is the cost of failing at that point in the process? How will technology eliminate the bottleneck in the future?


The pandemic actualized these pain points for many manufacturers all over the world. Entire production lines went down for weeks with workers being isolated by COVID-19. To stay competitive and fill orders, manufacturers turned to investing in automation to improve the stability of the assembly line. 


Management in manufacturing development a new mindset focused on flexibility. They looked at the worst-case scenarios of what would happen if, and when it happens how do we overcome that obstacle?  Automation has propelled manufacturing forward at lightning speed and through automation, manufacturing will now be more agile to adversity both on the line and with software solutions.

Cloud-Base Software Solutions:

Manufacturing in the United States has radically changed since Henry Ford invented the assembly line. Innovations in technology have gone from using human capital to computer automation. One area where manufacturing had to improve to stay operational during the Covid Pandemic was with cloud-based software. 

Today there are several ways that manufacturers can utilize cloud-based software:

  • Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) Allows manufacturers to access virtual computing resources. This includes technology like cloud servers and cloud storage. Examples include Apex which is offered by Dell Technologies. and Azure offered by Microsoft.
  • Platform as a Service (PaaS) delivers resources that allows you to run apps, not just software development. Examples include Azure which is a cloud based application solution offered by Microsoft. PaaS supports the complete web application lifecycle. From building, testing, deploying, managing, to updating.


With cloud computing or cloud-based infrastructure, new software can be rolled out with little to no time wasted.


“Manufacturing has been notoriously slow to adopt cloud technologies - in part due to outdated concerns about the comparative security of cloud storage vs on-prem.” -Forbes


Connecting management to the manufacturing floor was key during the Covid Pandemic. Cloud-based software helped to ensure visibility through every step of the process while maintaining distance to try and curb the spread of Covid. The last thing manufacturers wanted to happen is to have to shut down a line. Technology helped to move that pain to a long-term solution with flexible cloud-based software that can integrate into legacy systems.

Supply Chain:

In 2022, supply chain challenges continue to impact manufacturing. A shortage of truck drivers and rising consumer demand continue to drive change in the manufacturing world. Raw material and parts from overseas also impact the ability of American manufacturers to maintain optimal manufacturing processes. 


“The economic impact of COVID-19 revealed flaws in global manufacturing and supply chain thinking that were already ripe for change.” Glenn Richey, Harbert Eminent Scholar and Chair of the college’s Department of Supply Chain Management

Through automation, manufacturers can anticipate supply chain issues, but overcoming them is another matter entirely. Controlling costs with unstable sourcing has thrown many companies into a tailspin. Manufacturing companies have become increasingly international and often global. While international sourcing is on the rise, the pandemic has shown that access to the sources for your supply can be drastically affected by international interruptions. 


As a consequence of all this, manufacturers worldwide are going to be under greater political and competitive pressures to increase their domestic production, grow employment in their home countries, reduce or even eliminate their dependence on sources that are perceived as risky, and rethink their use of lean manufacturing strategies that involve minimizing the amount of inventory held in their global supply chains.” HBR.org


As a result, risk management in the supply chain has come into focus over the last few years and will continue to impact manufacturing going forward. Mitigating risks and developing strategic plans to prevent additional bottlenecks are essential to modern manufacturing. Automation and software are helping companies to identify and find possible solutions faster.


Conclusion:

Today, the need for automation and technology to prevent and mitigate problems with software is an essential part of the business. The ability to react quickly to change can mean the difference between surviving adversity and shutting your doors completely. Seifert Technologies specializes in helping manufacturers with innovative software solutions, and automation to ensure our clients with process improvements for the 21st century and beyond. If we have learned anything over the past few years, nothing is guaranteed, and flexibility is essential.


Contact us today to get started.

Students arranged in a circle. Seifert employees are giving a talk.
By Seifert Technologies 23 May, 2024
Seifert Technologies recently partnered with the Stark Education Partnership (SEP), Fairless High School and Perry High School and provided a career day for the students. The objective was to provide an insight to local area high school students on the careers and opportunities available right here in Stark County. Our presentations focused on the services which we provide to our clients related to Engineering, IT, and Staffing. We featured interactive displays on Robotics, Machine Design, 3D CAD, PLC Motion Control, IT Infrastructure, Power BI, Software Development, and Career Services. Jaecey Hudson holds the position of Career Champion at Stark Education Partnership (SEP). Her role places her within several local High Schools including Fairless and she counsels the students on their career paths. Jaecey was instrumental in scheduling the day with Fairless High School. SEP is a catalyst, engaging and collaborating with education, business, civic and community stakeholders to drive sustainable improvement and innovation to provide all students with education and career success. SEP serves education, business, and community organizations in the Stark County region as a connector and partner. SEP collaborates with local foundations to ensure a continued focus on meeting emerging needs and works in complementary fashion with other nonprofits throughout the region. Stark Education Partnership’s vision to build generations of successful individuals who fulfill their potential and grow roots in Stark County is brought to life by engaging students in real-world workplace experiences. We also worked closely with the Robotics / STEM department at Perry High School to plan the day for these students. Stephanie Laskey and her team from Perry were the high school coordinators for the event. The Perry Local Project Lead the Way classes emphasize various engineering aspects, spanning from introduction to engineering design, computer manufacturing, digital electronics, aerospace engineering, to principles of engineering. Students were enthusiastic and actively involved in witnessing engineering principles in action at Seifert Technologies. They gained insight into the structure of engineering firms and the key attributes of successful engineers. They left Seifert Technologies with new information, eager to apply their newfound knowledge in the world of engineering. To learn more details about the services of Seifert Technologies, contact us at (330) 833-2700 or sales@seifert.com. Please visit www.seifert.com for more information on our full range of capabilities. For more information related to SEP, please visit www.edpartner.org . 
3D rendering of factory floor. Pictured is conveyor belts, robotic arm, a man, and a forklift.
By Seifert Technologies 20 Mar, 2024
Manufacturing can be traced back to the Industrial Revolution. The Industrial Revolution changed the way that manufacturers worked all over the world. There were inventions of new machines and technology. The new production made manufacturing cheaper, faster, and more efficient. The Industrial Revolution changed manufacturing for the modern world. In the First Industrial Revolution, which began in the late 18 th century was a significant change in human history. It transitioned to industrial societies, fueled by innovations in textile manufacturing, steam power, and iron production. This period increased efficiency in the mass production of goods. The invention of the steam engine led to the increase of railways. The First Industrial Revolution was the first step in modernizing the world. The Second Industrial Revolution is known as the Technological Revolution. This happened in the mid-19th century and was known for the adoption of electric power. This transformed the manufacturing process in steel. It led to the invention of the telegraph, telephone, television, and radio. Advancement in transportation was drastically improved leading to increased urbanization. The Third Industrial Revolution is known as the Digital Revolution. It happened in the late 20 th century with digital technology. This was the rise of the internet and digital computers. This changed the way people interacted with each other. The World Wide Web was developed. This led to the digitalization of every known modern aspect of life. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is referred to as Industry 4.0. This revolution is known for technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), 3D printing, and robotics. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is expected to have impacts on society to increase quality, production, and drive economic growth.
Graphic of a padlock on top of a CPU chip.
By Seifert Technologies 15 Mar, 2024
Phishing, Smishing, and Vishing are all ways that people try to get sensitive information from other people. They are all done in similar ways, but they have different ways of getting this information. It is important to know the difference between the three and how it looks when someone is getting targeted. Phishing Phishing is an online scam that gets sent to email accounts. It consists of getting sent a link or attachment from an unfamiliar email domain. When a user clicks on the link or attachment that is when the sender gets access to data. There are many different types of phishing to watch out for. Some of include spear, email, and whaling. Spear phishing is when someone specifically targets one person. They do this by adding their name, job, or social life. Whale phishing is when someone targets a big target like a manager, owner, or celebrities. They target these people since they have a lot of information on companies or other people. Smishing Smishing is a scam that gets sent as a text message (SMS). Scammers send a text to a target. The text that the target receives looks like a text from a trustworthy company. The scammers make the message look like it is the real company, and they send a link that they want the target to click on. There are different ways that these messages look. It can look like you won money or a prize. It can also look like a tax report or bank statement. Vishing Vishing is a scam where the target gets called over the phone rather than receiving a text message or email. The target is selected, and they call trying to convince them to download software for their device. How To Protect Yourself from All Three There are many ways to prevent these things from happening. Most importantly, do not click on links or attachments from unknown sources. Report suspicious emails, text messages, or calls that you receive. When you report these, you protect yourself and others from getting information taken. Seifert Technologies’ IT Division is your source for cybersecurity awareness. We are a registered agent of KnowB4 Products ( www.knowbe4.com ). These products implement sate of the art programs which: Send fully automated simulated phishing attacks, using thousands of customizable templates with unlimited usage Train your users with access to the world's largest library of always-fresh awareness training content AI-Driven phishing and training recommendations based on your users' phishing and training history Use Assessments to gauge proficiency of your users in security knowledge and security culture attitudes Easy user management using Active Directory Integration Contact our IT Service Team To learn more details about cybersecurity training contact us at (330) 833-2700 or sales@seifert.com. Please visit www.seifert.com/itservices for more information on our full range capabilities.
Seifert employees holding new toys, next to two Toys for Tots boxes.
By Seifert Technologies 15 Dec, 2023
For over 10 years the team at Seifert Technologies has participated in the Toys for Tots program. Every year, our employees show their support by donating new toys which are then delivered to local area families. It is an awesome way to give back to our Stark County community. We also want to thank all of our employees for their wonderful donations. Way to go team!
Leslie Callahan next to a sign that reads
By Seifert Technologies 15 Dec, 2023
Last month we celebrated a very special evening. Leslie Callahan, who has been with our firm since the beginning years, celebrated her 30th year with the organization. Team members from both our offices in Massillon and Nashville gathered to celebrate this well-deserved accomplishment.
Someone at a laptop, a robot hand is coming out of the screen with pointer finger extended, with glowing floating cyber icons
27 Nov, 2023
At Seifert Associates, we have been meeting the challenges of hiring technical talent for decades. Finding the right candidate for the right position can be a challenge. Thus, we have put together a list of the top questions we get from HR and give ideas on how to overcome the challenges we face in today’s job market. What Are the Top Hiring Challenges Today? First, we must talk about current hiring challenges. Today, employers encounter new recruitment hurdles as the job market progresses. Employers' obstacles and difficulties arise when it comes to recruiting and hiring qualified candidates. These challenges can come in many forms, such as a shortage of skilled workers, a highly competitive job market, or a lack of diversity and inclusion in the hiring process. The rapid changes in both technology and the evolving job market also contribute to these hiring challenges. Employers must overcome these hiring challenges to attract and retain top talent, as well as build a thriving workforce to drive organizational growth and success. Here is a List of the Top Concerns for Hiring: Finding Quality Candidates Attracting the right talent for a technical position is an employer's foremost concern. The more skilled the requirements are, the more the employee is sought after. With a limited workforce and intense competition for top-tier candidates, employers struggle when it comes to finding technical talent. Along with that, employers struggle to engage with candidates who are not actively seeking a new position. We spoke about the importance of collaborating with a recruiter who has strong experience with finding technical candidates in a previous blog, which you can review HERE . Attracting the Right Technical Talent Another challenge that employers face is attracting the right talent for a technical position. Highly skilled candidates today look for more than just a competitive salary. Candidates want to collaborate with a company that has a quality work culture. But they also want to seek employment with companies who share the same values, as well as have great benefits and a good understanding of work life balance. In fact, 46% of job seekers cite company culture as very important when choosing to apply to a company, and a shocking 47% of employees cite that company culture is the driving factor when looking for a new job. Skills Gap and Training
Manufacturing floor background, with a Stark County Manufacturing logo overlaid.
09 Nov, 2023
Seifert Technologies was pleased to host the Stark County Manufacturing Workforce Development Partnership group’s monthly meeting at our office in September 2023. We were proud to showcase our skills related to Automation and Machine Design and to the more than 40 members that came to the event. Stark County Manufacturing Workforce is a group of dedicated professionals that are committed to the support of manufacturer’s growth and expansion by offering education and career pathways within the manufacturing community. Showing them what local companies are doing in the areas to accelerate excellence in both local and national companies is always wonderful. Stark County has so much to offer. Seifert Technologies Showcased 7 Different Stations for SCMWDP Member Including:
A compass over a mechanical drawing
30 Oct, 2023
Today, 2D drawings are still used in both the engineering and manufacturing arenas. While some may believe that 2D drawings are falling the way of the dinosaur, we still need them to show details in parts, components, and assemblies. They are a fundamental part of engineering documentation. Manufacturers use 2D drawings as their main communication tool. In this blog, we will explore the reasons we believe that 2D drawings will remain an important modeling tool for engineering projects. The Evolution of 2D Drawings: Before there were computers, 2D drawings were used to define component specifications. With 2D drawings, engineers were able to navigate the creation of a product, simply by referencing the 2D rendering. The 2D drawing method of production dates to the beginnings of engineering information. Today, this history speaks to the importance of 2D drawings. As 2D drawings were the sole conveyor of design information for millennia. That all changed with the introduction of computers and 3D software like Autodesk Inventor, and SolidWorks . The choice of CAD software depends on your specific needs and the industry you're working in. You may want to consider factors like your budget, the type of projects you'll be working on, and your familiarity with the software when selecting the right CAD program for your needs.  But before we look at 3D technology, let’s examine the things that are still relevant today with 2D drawings. 2D Drawings Are Better at the Details:
Website or Mobile App? What are the Pros and Cons?
23 Oct, 2023
In this blog, the team at Seifert Technologies is going to walk you through the pros and cons of websites and mobile applications.
Seifert employee with hands folded in front of him, in front of a robotic arm.
23 Oct, 2023
Thank you to everyone who attended our Cleveland Technology Symposium. In case you missed it, here’s a recap of the event. The Engineering Division Utilizes State-of-the-Art Design Tools
More Posts
Share by: