Industry 4.0, a technological revolution full of challenges

Embracing the Challenges of Industry 4.0: A Technological Revolution Unveiled
Nancy Bramble
June 29, 2023
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Industry 4.0 is a genuine technological revolution. It introduces new digital technologies into the production process, enabling the creation of intelligent, connected factories capable of adapting rapidly to customer needs and market developments.
This fourth industrial revolution is based on the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), additive manufacturing, cybersecurity and real-time data systems.

These technologies enable companies to produce customized goods, reduce production times and improve product quality while making optimum use of resources and cutting costs.

What's more, Industry 4.0 connects all company stakeholders, from suppliers to customers, facilitating collaboration and innovation.
Industry 4.0 represents a technological revolution, changing the way companies produce, create value and interact with their customers and business partners.

The challenges of Industry 4.0: system complexity, real-time data collection and process customization

Industry 4.0 has revolutionised the world of manufacturing by introducing digital technologies to improve the efficiency of processes and operations. However, despite the undeniable benefits of Industry 4.0, companies face a number of challenges in reaping the full benefits of these new technologies.

timeline of the different industrial revolutions from 1800 to present day
Timeline of the different industrial revolutions from 1800 to present day

The growing complexity of systems

The growing complexity of systems is one of the main challenges of Industry 4.0. As companies become increasingly interconnected, they face unprecedented levels of complexity in managing and maintaining these systems. Complexity can make maintenance more difficult and increase the risk of failure, which can lead to costly downtime.

Real-time data collection and analysis

Another major challenge for Industry 4.0 companies is the collection and analysis of data in real time. Machines are equipped with sensors that collect data throughout the production process. However, analysing this data in real time can be difficult, especially if the data comes from multiple, heterogeneous sources.

Effective collaboration

Establishing fluid communication between the various players is also important for manufacturers. The various stakeholders, including employees, machines and suppliers, need to be able to communicate effectively to ensure a smooth and seamless workflow.

Genuine customization

Tailoring processes to the needs of each company and each customer is a key challenge. Customers are increasingly demanding and want customized products that meet their specific needs. Companies need to be able to tailor their processes to meet these demands, while maintaining the efficiency and profitability of their operations.
To meet these challenges, Industry 4.0 companies need to rely on innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning and the Internet of Things. They also need to invest in skilled teams to manage these technologies and integrate them into their existing infrastructure. Finally, they need to equip themselves with management solutions that are equal to the challenges they face.
Companies that can overcome these challenges will be better positioned to succeed in tomorrow's digital economy.

ERP, an essential tool for Industry 4.0, but with limits to overcome

ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) is an integrated management tool that enables companies to manage all their business processes, from production to sales and accounting. With the advent of Industry 4.0, ERP has become an essential tool for companies wishing to adapt to this new digital era.

However, despite its many advantages, ERP has reached its limits in a number of respects.

different functions of an ERP
Purpose of an ERP

Mobile: a poorly adapted user interface

With the rise of smartphones and tablets, mobility has become a major issue for businesses. Employees are increasingly mobile and need access to company information at any time and from any location. However, ERP user interfaces are often poorly adapted to mobile devices and can make it difficult to access information.

Intuitive: not always easy to get to grips with

ERP is a complex tool that requires training to master. However, users often find it difficult to get to grips with the tool, not least because the user interface is not very intuitive.

The complexity of the tool can also mean that users waste time navigating through multiple menus to find the information they need.

Customizable: limited personalization

Every business is unique and has specific management needs. To meet these needs, ERP systems offer customization features. However, these features are often limited and do not allow for fine-tuned customisation of the tool.

Collaboration: limited possibilities

In Industry 4.0, collaboration between the various players in the company is a major issue.

However, ERP systems are often designed to be used in silos, which limits collaboration between different departments.

We are also evolving in an open world, where we need to share information outside the company. Customers, partners and suppliers are all stakeholders that need to be considered.

Open to AI: an openness that is still limited

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a fast-growing field that offers many opportunities for businesses. However, ERP systems are still not very open to AI, and are unable to take full advantage of the data generated by the company.

Interoperability: not always easy integration

In a world where companies are using more and more different tools, interoperability has become a major issue.

However, integrating ERP systems with other tools can be complex, requiring specific developments.

Providing better access to data: a question of security

In Industry 4.0, data is at the heart of corporate strategy. However, data security is a major issue, and ERP systems must offer secure access to company data.

How NoCode can help companies meet the challenges of Industry 4.0

While ERP is an indispensable tool for Industry 4.0, it is reaching its limits in a number of respects. This is where NoCode can help.

NoCode is a type of simplified tool that allows you to create a digital solution (website, mobile application, etc.) or content without any knowledge of computer languages. This is a way of responding to a business approach by enabling iterative work through increased agility.

This method enables companies and their users to create customized applications without writing a single line of code.

By using NoCode, companies can create bespoke, on-the-spot applications that meet their exact requirements.

One of the main benefits of NoCode for businesses is that it saves time, and overall helps companies to be more efficient.

Nocode solutions examples : Webflow, Zapier, TimeTonic
NoCode solutions examples

Speed of development

By using NoCode tools, developers can create applications in a matter of hours, or even minutes, instead of days or weeks with a traditional development approach. As a result, businesses can be more responsive and launch new features more quickly to meet user needs.

Above all, the fact that configuration does not require technical skills means that users can create their own applications to meet their needs. It's the revenge of business over technology.

Listen to Jérôme Beauchamp, B2B2C Business Manager at Engie, and learn how he and his team have improved processes for Smart Building operations using TimeTonic.

Cost savings

NoCode reduces development costs by eliminating the need for a dedicated team of developers. Companies can therefore save on development costs and allocate these resources to other more complex projects or by enabling them to create faster.

EQUANS successfully managing its operation with TimeTonic which result in savings of € 532 k* in one year and a 100% customer satisfaction.

Task automation

NoCode tools can be used to create applications that automate repetitive and time-consuming tasks. As well as demotivating employees, these tasks can be costly if they are missed or forgotten. So there's a triple challenge here, not to mention the fact that improved responsiveness can only improve productivity, service quality and customer satisfaction.

Automating data flows and processes improves product quality and traceability. Companies can track the entire production process, from order to delivery, in real time.

Allowing both the planning and management of all activities while maintaining complete traceability, TimeTonic enabled Diamécal to obtain ISO 9001 certification, a guarantee of international recognition, in record time.

Integrating third-party services:

NoCode tools make it easy to integrate third-party services without the need to write code. This enables companies to create more efficient workflows and automate processes that previously required manual intervention.

It's an effective way of centralizing information in a way that is readable and accessible to everyone. Collaborative, these applications enable different players to work together on the same project.

non exhaustive list of TimeTonic functions : Project Management, CRM & Sales, Marketing, Human Ressources, Support, Stock managent, tailor made business app.
Some of TimeTonic functionalities

Companies can once again focus on their core business

NoCode saves businesses time by providing a fast, cost-effective, automated solution that can be easily integrated with other third-party services. By using NoCode tools, companies can focus on their core business and improve their productivity.

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