Finding new AI-based methods to boost productivity requires digital data
Large gains in productivity have been made over the years using lean manufacturing and Six Sigma, but today new technologies can further efficiency improvements
The manufacturing industry in general has seen major improvements in productivity using traditional methods like Six Sigma and lean manufacturing. While it might seem that we have gleaned all the improvements that are possible using these methods, today’s sensors and software make it possible to turn even a fraction of a percent of overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)—if that’s the KPI you’d like to use—into a worthwhile savings, enough to justify the cost of sensors and new software techniques.
I recently spoke with John Merrells, chief product officer, Sight Machine, to get an idea of what’s possible with the new tools we have today. Merrels leads development of the company's AI-based manufacturing data platform and its industry solutions. He has had roles in many start-ups in Silicon Valley from software engineer and architect to CEO, CTO, founder and co-founder.