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What Lies Ahead: Industry Influencers Reveal Insights On The Future Of Manufacturing Post-Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic undoubtedly rocked the manufacturing industry to its core. But each challenge presented a new opportunity to adapt to a new future full of innovative technology, communications, and processes.

Learn about other manufacturing trends, like the factory of the future and digital transformation, in our “Manufacturing Industry Trends for 2021” white paper!

And, what exactly is shaping the future for manufacturing?

According to industry influencers, digital tools, talent, the sharing economy, and brain-computing interface chips are what’s on the table.  

Trend #1: People, Talent, and Culture Will Be Critical to the Recovery Process

Beekeeper's guide to manufacturing trends

Jim Vinoski is an industry expert and writer for Forbes and BIZCATALYST 360, where he writes about all things manufacturing.

When it comes to some of the industry’s biggest challenges over the next five years, Jim pointed to the most essential part of any business – the people. 

He said:

Jim also stressed the need to reimagine traditional perceptions of the industry itself:

Additionally, Andy Kalambi, CEO of industrial 3D printing company, RIZE, believes purpose-based cultures that prioritize continuous learning are what will attract and retain employees in the industry as we go forward.

Trend 2: Digital-First Will Be Manufacturers’ Greatest Advantage In The Recovery

Johnny Williamson is a B2B content producer specializing in manufacturing and technology. With an extensive background in journalism on the topics at hand, Johnny provides insight and thought leadership on major trends impacting the manufacturing industry – such as digital transformation.

When it comes to the economic recovery from the pandemic, Johnny predicts that digital connectivity will be the major driving force.

He continued:

Trend #3 The Sharing Economy Will Play A Major Role

Beekeeper's guide to the sharing economy

Mathilde Degletagne is an author at BizBiz Share, a platform that enables companies to work together to share access to resources needed to optimize efficiency.

When it comes to what’s next for the industry, Mathilde believes the sharing economy will play a major role.

Trend #4: Demand For Remote Access To Data Will Remain

Matt Judge is the VP of Sales at VizSeek and a public speaker. According to Matt, the need for instant access to manufacturing data will only become more prominent in the next normal.

Additionally, Europe and Asia are ahead of the game when it comes to adopting new technologies. If that remains, a new balance of power could follow suit.