Manufacturing is unfairly labelled as a slow-moving industry. In reality, the opposite is true: a globally connected economy is driving change at an incredible pace.<\/p>\n
On the factory floor, and right across the production cycle, Australia\u2019s manufacturing industry is not just preparing for change. We\u2019re already experiencing it.<\/p>\n
So, what does the future hold for manufacturing? And what should you be doing now to prepare for tomorrow\u2019s clever, customised, connected world?<\/p>\n
Last year the Federal Government announced $1.3 billion<\/a> to help our manufacturing industry scale-up, compete globally, and create more resilience in the supply chain. Called the Modern Manufacturing Initiative (MMI), the funding came after the sector stagnated.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, CSIRO Futures<\/a>, working with the government and industry, laid down a roadmap for manufacturers to seize the upcoming opportunities.<\/p>\n Here are the trends they identified.<\/p>\n Industry 4.0 will see nanotechnology, automation and data permeate every part of the manufacturing industry. You might think the technology revolution is a way off, but it\u2019s already here:<\/p>\n The MMI will boost investment in science and technology. But manufacturers need to pull their weight too, investing in training and education, smart systems, software and continuous improvement.<\/p>\n Climate change is disrupting the value chain more every year. Whether it\u2019s raw materials (including water and energy) becoming harder to source, or rising calls for our industry to adopt low-carbon production methods, sustainability is now a consideration for every company.<\/p>\n CSIRO Futures and the ABC<\/a> predict that customer demand for sustainably made products will keep climbing. For manufacturers, this means adopting low-emissions methods and earning sustainability credentials that prove a commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.<\/p>\n Niche markets are popping up all over the place. Why? Because customers are looking for personalised products at affordable prices. Made-to-order is the new standard in a world where everything from running shoes<\/a> to steel for submarine hulls<\/a> can be customised to meet specific demands.<\/p>\n Innovations in areas like 3D printing and downstream processing capabilities enable this kind of personalisation at scale.\u00a0At the same time, manufacturers who pivot from delivering products to creating solutions can capture more of the market.<\/p>\n This requires a mindset shift and data-driven insight to capitalise on market opportunities. But when you think beyond producing widgets to packaged solutions, customers respond well.<\/p>\n Revisit our blog on value-added activities for more on this topic<\/i><\/a>.<\/i><\/p>\n Australia might have closed the borders to combat COVID-19, but we\u2019re still part of a globalised economy. In fact, we\u2019re so connected with international markets that CSIRO says our traditional disadvantages \u2013 remoteness, high labour costs, relatively small and conservative market \u2013 are no longer barriers to success.<\/p>\n Embrace the global economy. By expanding your horizons beyond our borders, you can find customers in an enormous market hungry for our high standards.<\/p>\nBig data (and small data)<\/h3>\n
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Sustainability and climate change<\/h3>\n
Customisation<\/h3>\n
Global market outlook<\/h3>\n
How Jobman helps you prepare for the future<\/h2>\n