At Factories of The Future at Cranfield University, industry experts discussed how manufacturers can leverage technology to enhance productivity. The panel discussion underscored that digital adoption is absolutely essential but must be grounded in foundational readiness, emphasising a “friendly critique” approach to make business objectives smarter using collective experience, including knowledge of made mistakes.

A significant challenge addressed was the internal cultural resistance, with panelists confirming that almost all SMEs struggle significantly with the tension of managing tomorrow while managing today. The solution lies in transparency and using lean processes to secure quick wins, reassuring staff that technology helps them add value and have impact, not replace roles. Speed of effective adoption is crucial.

Finally, addressing sustainability and the skills gap, experts stressed that businesses must first achieve efficiency and self-sufficiency (survival), while the industry must collectively combat its “complete and utter horrendous image problem” by showcasing modern, technological factories to attract diverse talent.