Business as usual is no longer an option for OEMs. Given the unprecedented uncertainty facing the auto industry, one thing is sure: automakers must recalibrate their business strategies if they plan to survive in a COVID-19 era. To help auto leaders prepare for the “new normal,” Marx Layne has identified five trends expected to impact the market outlook and propel the industry forward in the months ahead.

The productivity gains promised by Industry 4.0 are, without a doubt, desired objectives for many manufacturers. As more and more organizations start their journey into this smart/digital manufacturing world, it is frequent for them to incur into a scenario Andreas Hassold and Matteo Dariol from Bosch Rexroth Corporation call “PoC limbo”. This week on the blog, they will describe how to avoid this type of roadblock.

A new workforce is emerging, and with it, a new way of working. As new employees enter the field, and others retire, a knowledge gap develops between these generations. Anticipating and preparing for potential interruptions to your production is crucial, and finding the means to capture and instill essential manufacturing skills and critical expertise is at the forefront of many companies’ goals. The effective transfer of knowledge to new employees, and cross-training existing employees, has become essential to maintain productivity, efficiency and innovation, and increase agility and adaptability. This week on the blog, Csaba Szabo, Executive Director of Business Development and Global Partnerships at SRI International, shares how to use AI to capture and transfer manufacturing knowledge.

Automation Alley’s global Industry 4.0 conference, Integr8, is back for 2020, and this year’s virtual experience is shaping up to be a must-attend event for those seeking guidance as they navigating the complexities associated with digital transformation. This year’s event, scheduled for Nov. 9 and 10, is expected to draw hundreds of participants from around the globe for two days of immersive content related to the smart and connected technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Whether you’re interested in learning about artificial intelligence and data analytics, the impact of 5G, machine automation, how to secure your factory from cyber threats, or preparing your workforce for the jobs of tomorrow, Integr8 has something for you. Here are eight reasons you won’t want to miss this one-of-a-kind event.