For dynamic membership organizations like Automation Alley, the member experience drives the organization, determining policy, strategy, events and programming. The Automation Alley member experience is not only founded on the principles of trust and collaboration, it is expanding because of them. You can see it, feel it and even measure it—with data that reflects increased member attendance and engagement at events, in collaborative research projects and even new business deals and partnerships.

Automation is more than an idea, it’s a way of life. The principles of Industry 4.0 can be applied to every aspect of your business. When done right, the results speak for themselves. Kristin O’Neill, Automation Alley business development representative, shares her secrets for success this week on the blog.

Automation Alley member company Brinks Gilson & Lione provides IP law counsel on innovations in a range of complex and valuable technologies, including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, bioengineering, industrial manufacturing, electronics and software and medical devices. Watch Dr. Keith Weiss discuss how the firm leverages Automation Alley membership to help businesses protect and enforce their intellectual property rights.

Automation Alley added 15 new members in January. Click the link below to meet them.

In its 30-plus year history, 3D printing hasn’t offered the scalability, repeatability, or economics (comparable cost per part) to be thought of as a sustainable manufacturing solution. But recent advancements in the 3D Printing industry make the case the technology is en route to disrupting manufacturing as we know it, says David Baumgarten, Founder and President of Novastar Solutions. Speed and design freedom are just two of the most important 3D printing differentiators when compared to legacy manufacturing.

Robotics systems are cheaper and more versatile than ever. Companies automating are seeing an ROI faster than ever. Robots make your shop floor safer and remove tedious tasks from your employees. In fact, we’ve heard the stories about how initially employees have reservations about working with robots. Soon after installation, though, they begin to ask 'what else can the robot help me with?' Employees happy, bosses happy, vendors happy and efficiency, project flow and profits all trending in the right direction. So, what am I missing when I see that not every company jumps in on robotics?" writes John Bedz, Automation Alley's program manager of entrepreneurship and defense. Understanding the obstacles to automation is the first step in helping companies considering this next move.