In an increasingly digital world, surrounded by connected devices, manufacturers are recognizing the necessity and benefits of moving from a linear supply chain model to a flexible, digital supply network (DSN). DSNs integrate data and information from the various sources that contribute to the production and distribution of manufactured goods. This data is available instantaneously, allowing manufacturers to make quick decisions and adapt to changing market needs. Additionally, DSNs reduce product costs, increase profitability, and improve quality. With wide-ranging benefits, one would expect that a majority of manufacturers have implemented DSNs. However, according to a survey conducted by MAPI and Deloitte, only 28% of respondents have started implementing DSN solutions.

Definitions matter and they aren’t universal. In the digital landscape, we are each an interpreter navigating a brave new world. What is a digital strategy? Are we digitizing or digitalizing our business? Do those words mean the same thing or are they different? And what about digital transformation? Is this term a new business buzzword or a profound transformation on the horizon that requires significant preparation?

In today's business landscape, data and computer controls are at the center of how organizations operate. Your enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, manufacturing execution system (MES), financial planning system, human resources platform, customer relationship management (CRM) system, and payroll system are just a few of the key systems running your business. Every one of these systems is vulnerable and needs to be protected from cybersecurity threats. 

While technology advancements surrounding connected devices and data analysis hurtle forward – and costs and barriers to entry generally are falling – some companies still feel as if they’re missing out on something, scrambling to get on the cutting edge.

It’s safe to say that the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) has crossed into the mainstream. In part 1 of this blog series on monetizing IIoT, we shared some findings from MAPI’s recent white paper, developed with PwC, which focused on where U.S. manufacturers currently stand in their adoption and development of IIoT technologies. One finding in particular said it all: nearly nine in ten survey respondents said they are currently offering or are in the process of developing IIoT products or services.

What went wrong? This is the question many people in the Equifax organization are asking today. How did hackers gain access to over 143 million U.S.

Every day, companies are introducing products enhanced by new technologies, and there is no doubt they will have a transformative impact on the global economy.

We are in the midst of the inescapable growth spurt of the internet of things (IoT) and the industrial internet of things (IIoT). One estimate puts the number of all globally connected devices at 8.4 billion, one-third of which are business and industrial products.