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Manufacturers urged to pursue accessible AI solutions

AI adoption can boost the efficiency of maintenance and repairs, streamline compliance, and support efforts to upskill employees

Posted on 20 Jan 2025. Edited by: John Hunter. Read 519 times.
Manufacturers urged to pursue accessible AI solutionsRecent research from Make UK has identified a lack of understanding as the primary barrier to artificial intelligence (AI) deployment for UK manufacturers. The Future Factories Powered by AI report revealed that only 16% of firms view themselves as ‘knowledgeable’ on the subject, with just a third implementing AI in their manufacturing operations.

According to Samppa Lahtinen, senior industry solutions manager at M-Files, manufacturers who are unsure of how to best use AI should focus on steady integration, rather than complex and multi-layered projects. He advocates a ‘back to basics’ approach to achieve accurate outputs, with emphasis on the foundational elements of AI projects.

He said: “Despite the fact that there is a myriad of opportunities to reap the benefits of AI in manufacturing, the sector is still lagging behind when it comes to the adoption of this technology. Before pursuing a total overhaul of their operations, firms struggling to formulate a clear pathway to mass AI integration should first concentrate on identifying tools that can be implemented quickly and simply.

“In order to do so, it is crucial to consider whether the building blocks are in place to deliver an effective AI strategy. This mainly entails correctly structuring the data that AI tools will rely upon to produce accurate results. It’s important to remember that steps we take make employees’ lives easier; such as auditing files to ensure they are easy to navigate, which will also have a positive effect on the performance of AI and AI agents.

Fixing faults effectively

Mr Lahtinen continued: “Manufacturers could begin by considering how AI can improve their methods for installing, repairing, and maintaining machinery. This technology can provide recommendations specific to a piece of equipment that enable staff to fix faults efficiently. As a result, manufacturers can benefit from reduced downtime as employees are empowered to solve technical issues without external assistance.

“AI can also bolster existing procedures for training and upskilling employees. Solutions automatically update training records to ensure compliance, while even suggesting courses or resources unique to each staff member that may further their development. Firms then benefit from a more skilled workforce, with staff feeling valued by an employer who is proactive in facilitating their growth.

“Another valuable use case of AI is to deliver alignment with safety standards and regulations. Employees can use the search function of GenAI tools to confirm whether they have the necessary qualifications or certificates to complete certain tasks, minimising health and safety risks as staff are less likely to take on responsibilities they haven’t received the necessary training for.

“When it comes to investment project management, AI can be a significant point of difference. For endeavours that involve careful scheduling, estimation and documentation, for instance planning for new plants or factories, AI and automation can support firms in organising vast amounts of information.”

He concluded: “Ultimately, manufacturers don’t have to be AI experts to benefit from this technology. Instead, identifying inefficiencies − then considering how AI can eradicate these bottlenecks − will improve both output and employee experience.”