A NEW-AGE MANUFACTURING LANDSCAPE

The digital thread refers to the communication framework that allows a connected data flow and integrated view of the asset’s data throughout its lifecycle across traditionally siloed functional perspectives. The digital thread concept raises the bar for delivering “the right information to the right place at the right time.”

- Manu Tayal

The COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally changed the way the world has been operating over the last year and a half. While the knowledge industry might have been better positioned to transition to a remote working model, the more traditional industries, like manufacturing, had to reset and devise elaborate business continuity programs to continue operating in the emerging new normal. Technology has undoubtedly been the difference maker as it has helped manufacturing organisations that are driven by conventional physical models, to become more agile and accelerate their digital transformation journey.

Manufacturers have been transitioning to digital for years. These digital transitions included model-based systems engineering (MBSE), computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), product lifecycle management (PLM), enterprise resource planning (ERP), manufacturing execution systems (MES), maintenance, repair and operation (MRO), and supply chain maintenance (SCM) implementations.

One of the exciting areas in the next phase of technological innovation is the ‘Digital Thread’ as it has the potential to help manufacturers achieve unprecedented levels of visibility across the product lifecycle while providing stakeholders with detailed, accurate and timely information.

The digital thread is a structural approach that connects digital information throughout a product lifecycle from R&D till the last stage of scrapping the product. Manufacturers can accommodate connecting an entire product ecosystem by establishing a digital thread between suppliers, production on the shop floor and customers, thereby ensuring efficiencies and lower costs.