Made Smarter East Midlands and InterAct Technology Transfer Workshop

Presented by Made Smarter East Midlands, these workshops are specifically designed to show how the adoption of digital technology can help manufacturers solve everyday challenges and capitalise on new opportunities.

As part of Leicester’s Innovation Festival, Made Smarter East Midlands has partnered with the InterAct Network to be host our next Technology Transfer Workshop titled, "Increasing Productivity through the Adoption of Digital Technology" at Loughborough University.

We hear a lot about the constant struggle for greater productivity, and what business wouldn’t want to increase their efficiency and output? But how can we achieve this in practical terms? Join this workshop to find out more about the ways adopting new technology can help manufacturers to increase their productivity, including:

• Reducing defects and rework.
• Eliminating waste and non-value-added activity in both office/support and shop floor processes.
• Creating processes to minimise human error and health and safety issues.
• Introducing automation to reduce labour deficits and costs.
• Being innovative about the products you offer or adopting servitized business models.

Who is this workshop for?

This session is specifically aimed at SME Manufacturers, but larger manufacturers with fewer than 250 staff are also very welcome to attend.

Consultancy and Professional Services companies are not eligible to attend.

How will this event benefit your business?

• You will have the opportunity to examine Industrial Digital Technology (IDT) solutions designed to assist SME Manufacturers with increasing productivity, focussing particularly on real world application and the practical benefits which can be achieved.
• Increase your understanding of current best practice for adopting new manufacturing technology, minimising implementation time, and maximising your upside. Our experts and tech providers will discuss the risks, key challenges, and considerations in adopting digital technology.
• Take part in open debate between manufacturers and IDT suppliers to develop communications and drive practical, informed solutions.
• Understand how a range of non-competing technologies can provide different solutions to boost productivity.

Agenda

7.30 AM - 8:15 AM: Arrival and Breakfast - Enjoy a complimentary breakfast and network with fellow participants while exploring the event space.

8:15 AM – 8:45 AM: Welcome and Introduction - Hear from Made Smarter East Midlands and InterAct as we share information on access to grant funding, free technical advice, leadership development and cutting-edge insights supported by extensive research to help your digitalisation journey.

08:45 AM – 09:45 AM: Technology Provider Presentations - Hear from four expert technology providers about how their digital solutions can improve your productivity. These presentations are an opportunity for manufacturers to gain a practical understanding of different technologies, how they can solve real life problems, and the benefits which can be realised.

09:45AM – 10:00AM: Hear from InterAct funded experts about their new, free to use ‘digital servitization’ toolkit. The result of exciting recent research, their model can enhance productivity and competitiveness in manufacturing firms by providing practical, applicable guidance to SMEs trying to adapt their business models to make the most of digital technologies.

10:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Panel Discussion Q & A - Delve into the realms of digital technology with a panel led by Chris Owen, Made Smarter East Midlands Programme Director. A great opportunity to learn from experts and other manufacturers to understand key issues and considerations when implementing digital technologies.

10:30 AM – 11.30 AM: Networking - Connect with industry experts, technology providers, and peers for invaluable collaboration opportunities. There will be various digital technologies available to explore plus more refreshments before you get back on the road.

Adopting digital technology is now essential to remain competitive. Embrace the Made Smarter East Midlands - Technology Transfer Workshops and equip your manufacturing SME with the digital prowess and innovation strategy to stay ahead of the curve.