Cloud-based software and real-time information has made the industry leaner at lean.

Eric Whitley of Leading2Lean discusses how manufacturing has become more lean, and the decreasing significance of manufacturing consultants.

"Technology answers the questions consultants cannot. Through tech, the industry has become Leaner at Lean. With access to cloud-based software that provides critical, real-time information, plants can identify and offer solutions to issues as they occur.

Perhaps the biggest innovation in manufacturing technology is streamlined data recording. Lean software creates a single, transparent source for plant information, allowing for standardized data collection across all plant floors. Collecting this real-time data provides more accurate historical data, surfacing the chronic issues so they can be addressed. Plant employees take ownership of their work and are proactive in finding a solution. A better-focused and motivated workforce leads to habits of continuous improvement."

Read the full article on Plant Engineering