Are you ready for 4IR?

Beadle points out that 4IR technology makes the difference, in every manufacturing branch.

Furthermore, he underlines, there are eight crucial steps on a company’s digital journey.

Firstly, it is important to adopt a model.

Company’s accomplishing the digital transformation need to convert their concept into a realistic model which people can see with their own eyes.

In a second step, it is necessary to use the data and skills which are already available within the company.

The head of manufacturing IT at JLR says: “Look at your own company with open eyes, seek out individuals and put together their skills.”

Mostly, he adds, a company has to start with the information that is to hand.

Thirdly, when it comes to the financial aspects of a successful implementation of 4IR technologies, Beadle suggests: “Create a business case and think about it as early as possible. In the end – let’s be honest – money is most important.”

In the fourth place, it is necessary to collaborate and to bring the IT department to the shop floor. The data and information must be floating between the traditional functional silos as smooth and productive as possible.

In a fifth step, it is important to create product teams instead of project teams. Beadle states: “An IT project team is only formed for a certain limited period, whereas a product team is something that exists for a very long period, and it is more sustainable.”

Moreover, Beadle mentions, there should be enough space for experiments in every company, factory or office.

He says: “Just give the new digital native a bit of space to act out their love of experimentation.”

A seventh very important point is to go agile. JLR conducts on a monthly basis sprints that turn the work into a prototype, according to the motto ‘Show and Tell’.

Finally, the company has to stay agile to be ready for 4IR.