Introduction
Asset optimization is a critical aspect of the industrial sector, aiming to enhance the value and performance of assets throughout their lifecycle. The seamless integration of asset management systems, like those provided by Makini, enables organizations to make data-driven decisions in real-time, resulting in efficient utilization and improved productivity. In this article, we will delve into the realm of asset optimization in the industrial sector, exploring its significance and the benefits it brings to organizations. We will also examine real-world examples of successful asset optimization strategies and the challenges faced along the way. By understanding the importance of asset optimization, organizations can streamline their operations and achieve maximum efficiency in the industrial sector.
1. Understanding Asset Optimization in the Industrial Sector
Asset optimization forms the core of industrial processes, aiming at enhancing the value and performance of assets throughout their lifecycle. It encompasses strategic asset stewardship to ensure their efficient utilization, bolstering the organization's productivity and profitability. The crux of asset optimization in the context of industrial integration revolves around the seamless fusion of asset management systems, like those provided by Makini. This integration enables real-time data access, empowering organizations to make data-driven decisions regarding their assets.
In the realm of utility asset management, operational costs and capital expenditures constitute a significant portion of expenses for transmission and distribution companies. One way to tackle this is through the application of advanced analytics, a strategy that can foster operational optimization and investment, resulting in savings while enhancing reliability and performance. An example of this is UtilityCo, a North American utility, which incorporated advanced analytics in asset management and realized significant savings in operational costs and capital expenditures. These savings can either be reinvested or contribute to the profit and loss statement, a critical consideration given the current constraints faced by utilities.
UtilityCo's success involved creating a roadmap to scale the asset management approach to two-thirds of its capital portfolio over two years. The effective implementation of advanced analytics led to optimized capital expenditures, reduced preventive and corrective maintenance costs, and the replacement of the riskiest assets to enhance reliability. Crucial to the success of the implementation was a broader organizational transformation, which included the adoption of a change mindset and cross-functional collaboration.
The journey was not without challenges. UtilityCo faced obstacles related to data quality, talent and capabilities, change management, and implementation and governance. However, the lessons learned along the way were invaluable. They included the importance of starting with a proof of concept, addressing data silos and quality issues, building a digital center of excellence, and engaging asset managers early on. The success of the asset management transformation was attributed to top-down leadership buy-in, an agile approach to working, not waiting for perfection, and effective change management strategies.
Public utilities, such as Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), have also embarked on this journey. SPU, which provides water, sewer, and drainage services for 1.3 million people in King County, aimed to be proactive in pipe inspection rather than reactive with emergency response. With a median pipe age of over 80 years, SPU previously had a reactive approach to pipe rehabilitation and lacked a system perspective. Recognizing the need for change, SPU developed a strategy for pipe inspection, condition evaluation, risk assessment, capital investment, and implementation planning.
SPU leveraged innovative asset management software to improve their process and efficiency. The software helped SPU develop a deliberate assessment strategy, improve understanding of system risk, forecast future condition and investment, secure funding and resources, and establish a long-term rehab schedule. The software includes a risk matrix feature that prioritizes pipe repair and replacement based on risk levels. The use of advanced asset management software allowed SPU to be more proactive, increase funding, and secure a long-term plan for rehabilitation.
In the end, the deployment of advanced analytics in asset management can lead to substantial operational and financial benefits. However, its successful implementation requires a broader organizational transformation, cross-functional collaboration, and an agile approach to working. Despite the challenges, the rewards are substantial, underlining the importance of asset optimization in the industrial sector.
2. Role of Siemens Industry Mall in Promoting Asset Optimization
As a cornerstone in the realm of asset optimization, the Siemens Industry Mall offers a comprehensive suite of solutions and services, covering a wide range of sectors including drive technology, automation technology, energy, and building technologies. It serves as a unique online platform that enables users to personalize settings and prices, promoting customization and operational efficiency. This makes it an ideal choice for organizations seeking to enhance their asset utilization and streamline operations.
In the global landscape, material handling system integrators provide a myriad of services, ranging from consulting and systems integration to industrial controls, robotic integration, custom automation, intralogistics software, and customer support. They cater to a wide spectrum of industries including 3rd party logistics, aerospace, automotive, consumer goods, ecommerce, food and beverage, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, retail, apparel, and wholesale. These solutions target various functions such as ecommerce fulfillment, microfulfillment, omnichannel distribution, order fulfillment, packing and shipping, pallet handling, returns, cross docking, sanitizing solutions, sortation, storage, and more.
To deliver these services, they utilize technologies like AGVs, AMRs, ASRS, conveyor systems, goods-to-person systems, order fulfillment, palletizing, picking technologies, robotics, sortation systems, and intralogistics software. Proprietary products and resources such as blogs, case studies, news, press releases, webinars, seminars, newsletters, and downloadable materials like brochures, whitepapers, product overview sheets, and product manuals are readily available for users.
Bastian Solutions, a multinational corporation with headquarters in the USA and locations in Canada, India, Asia Pacific, Mexico, South America, offers a variety of products including conveyors, lift and load work positioners, lift tables, lift carts, pallet handling equipment, tilters, rotators, workstations, workbenches, parts, safety equipment, ergonomic matting, carts, steps, ladders, platforms. They also provide customer support and warranty services.
A shining illustration of asset optimization is seen in the case of SMC Corporation, a global manufacturer, and distributor of pneumatic components. SMC made a substantial investment in material handling equipment and software to enhance throughput, accuracy, and visibility in their operations. They implemented a real-time warehouse management system in their facility, leveraging key technologies such as RF handheld devices, wearable mobile printers, HMI, Beckhoff distributed IO, Profibus fieldbus network, Accusort line scanners, overhead omni-directional scanner, Hytrol conveyor system, Ambaflex spiral conveyors, pallet rack locations, Lyon shelving. As a result, they achieved significant improvements in efficiency, flexibility, additional capacity, real-time visibility, improved picking productivity, increased inventory accuracy, and faster shipping throughput. They also installed an express shipping lane to expedite customer orders and provide support in multiple languages including English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese.
The success story of SMC Corporation serves as a testament to the power of asset optimization. Their implementation of the Exacta Warehouse Management System resulted in a 35% increase in picking productivity. The company consolidated its operations into a massive 796,000 square foot facility to enhance efficiency and provide flexibility for future growth. The new system, along with a continuous improvement plan, enabled SMC to achieve its 10-year corporate growth goal in just 5 years. Key technologies used in the facility include RF handheld devices, wearable mobile printers, human-machine interface (HMI), and a distributed IO Profibus fieldbus network. The facility also employs 19 Accusort line scanners, 2 overhead omni-directional scanners, and a 3-mile Hytrol conveyor system. The implementation of an Ambaflex spiral conveyor system resulted in increased shipping throughput and improved inventory accuracy.
3. Exploring the Diverse Services Offered: Drive Technology, Automation, Energy, and Building Technologies
Siemens Industry Mall stands as a comprehensive hub catering to the diverse needs of the industrial sector. It offers a robust portfolio of services across multiple domains, including drive technology, automation, energy, and building technologies. Each of these sectors is equipped with solutions designed to enhance performance, streamline processes, optimize energy use, and boost efficiency.
The Drive technology solutions offered by Siemens Industry Mall are designed to enhance the performance and efficiency of drive systems. To utilize these, one can navigate to the drive systems section on the website, explore the available options, and select products or technologies that meet their specific needs. Detailed product descriptions, specifications, and customer reviews provide further information to aid in decision-making.
Automation technology services are another key offering of the Siemens Industry Mall. These services are designed to enhance productivity by streamlining processes. The platform's extensive product catalog provides access to a wide range of automation products and solutions, helping businesses in various industries improve their efficiency.
Energy solutions offered by the Siemens Industry Mall are strategically developed to optimize energy use and minimize costs. These solutions include energy management systems, energy-efficient equipment, and smart grid technologies. By implementing these solutions, businesses can reduce their energy consumption and lower their energy bills.
The Siemens Industry Mall also offers a range of building technologies to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of buildings. These solutions include products designed to optimize energy consumption, improve comfort, and increase the overall efficiency of buildings. By leveraging Siemens' expertise in building automation, energy management, and HVAC systems, building owners and operators can find and purchase the necessary technologies to meet their specific needs.
The Siemens Industry Mall's online ordering system, named the Global eBusiness Online Ordering System, is designed for digital industries and smart infrastructure. It offers a user-friendly interface with straightforward login and registration processes. Post-login, users can access their individualized settings and prices and avail of additional functionalities.
The platform's extensive product catalog caters to a range of industries with market-specific solutions. It includes categories such as drive technology, automation technology, energy, building technologies, and low voltage controls and distribution. Moreover, the catalog incorporates product information and configurators, enabling users to filter and find specific products with ease.
The Siemens Industry Mall also offers integrations with warehouse management systems like Oracle Fusion Cloud and Manhattan Associates. These integrations can help streamline operations, optimize asset utilization, and enhance overall productivity within the warehouse.
In conclusion, the Siemens Industry Mall is not just a one-stop solution for the industrial sector's diverse needs but also a platform that aids organizations in optimizing their assets and achieving their strategic objectives effectively. By leveraging the offerings available in the Siemens Industry Mall, companies can find solutions tailored to their specific industrial needs, enhance their operational efficiency, reduce costs, and work towards the achievement of their strategic goals.
4. Enhancing Operations with Consulting, Engineering, Cybersecurity, Training, and Support Services
Siemens Industry Mall serves as a comprehensive ecosystem amplifying operational efficiency, offering a suite of services that include expert consultation, technical engineering expertise, educational training, and continuous support.
When it comes to consultation, Siemens Industry Mall provides specialized advice to help businesses optimize their assets. These services may include asset management strategies, performance improvement initiatives, maintenance optimization, and predictive analytics. By leveraging their expertise, businesses can effectively optimize their assets and improve overall operational efficiency.
Their engineering services offer technical expertise to enhance asset performance and efficiency. Siemens Industry Mall offers a wide range of engineering services and solutions that can help optimize the performance of your assets. Leveraging their expertise and industry knowledge, businesses can improve the efficiency, reliability, and overall performance of their assets.
Despite the rising prevalence of cyber threats in today's digital age, there is no information available about Siemens Industry Mall providing cybersecurity services for protecting assets from cyber threats.
Training services are another critical component of Siemens Industry Mall's offerings. The training services offered by Siemens Industry Mall can provide employees with the necessary knowledge and expertise to enhance their skills in various areas related to the industry. By participating in these training programs, staff members can acquire new skills and stay updated with the latest advancements in their field. This can ultimately lead to improved performance and efficiency in their respective roles.
Finally, Siemens offers ongoing support services to ensure the smooth operation of assets. Siemens Industry Mall offers a wide range of support services, including technical support, maintenance services, and spare parts management. By utilizing these services, businesses can ensure that their assets are properly maintained and any issues or disruptions are promptly addressed, allowing for uninterrupted operation. Siemens Industry Mall also provides access to a vast catalog of products and solutions, making it easier to find and procure the necessary components for your assets.
In essence, Siemens Industry Mall's range of services provides a comprehensive solution for asset optimization. This multifaceted approach enables organizations to achieve maximum efficiency and productivity.
5. Utilizing the Online Ordering System for Customized Settings and Prices
The Siemens Industry Mall's digital platform is a key resource for asset optimization. It provides a comprehensive catalog of Siemens' offerings, allowing users to select and integrate the most suitable solutions for their needs. The platform provides access to a wide range of Siemens products and services for industrial automation and drive technology. This not only simplifies the ordering process but also ensures that organizations can derive maximum value from their assets.
In much the same way, Marxent, a firm specializing in 3D design and visualization, collaborated with Unity Professional Services to enhance the performance of their web-based 360° 3D interior design tool. The teams worked on reducing the size of the WebGL application's player data and codebase, optimizing the application flow, and implementing WebAssembly for quicker execution. The outcome? A faster, more streamlined 3D program and a 30% improvement in loading speed.
Likewise, the Siemens Industry Mall platform streamlines operations and accelerates processes. It offers a user-friendly interface that allows users to easily navigate through the available products and find the information they need. This includes detailed product information, availability, and pricing, enabling users to make informed purchasing decisions.
A further example of successful optimization is Alt Shift's experience with Unity. They created an immersive sci-fi world with a pixel art look and feel for their game, Crying Suns. Despite deciding to go multiplatform mid-project, they were able to use Unity's continuous integration/continuous development (CI/CD) features to rapidly prototype for iOS and Android. They performed 90% of testing across devices directly in the Unity editor using custom extensions and reduced the game's memory footprint from 15 GB to 11 GB using Unity's addressable asset system.
These examples demonstrate how the right tools and platforms can optimize processes and enhance user experience, much like the Siemens Industry Mall's online ordering system. By allowing users to customize their settings and access specific prices, it not only streamlines the ordering process but also ensures that organizations can extract the most value from their assets.
The Siemens Industry Mall is a one-stop solution for ordering and asset optimization. It provides a convenient platform for customers to order Siemens products and services, as well as optimize their assets for maximum efficiency and productivity. With the Siemens Industry Mall, customers can easily browse through a wide range of Siemens offerings, place orders, track shipments, and access technical documentation and support resources. Additionally, the platform offers tools and features for asset management and optimization, allowing customers to monitor and analyze the performance of their Siemens products and make informed decisions for improvement.
6. Leveraging the Product Catalogue and Configurators for Easy Selection
The Siemens Industry Mall is a central hub for asset optimization, offering a wide-ranging product catalogue and specialized configurators. The product catalogue serves as a comprehensive guide, detailing an expansive array of products and services. This detailed list aids users in pinpointing their needs, making the selection process more efficient.
Simultaneously, the configurators available in the Siemens Industry Mall give users the ability to adjust products and services to their specific needs. This level of customization encourages a strategic approach to asset optimization, boosting efficiency across operations. This is reminiscent of the analogy of tailoring clothing to building software - the same principle applies to asset optimization. While in-house data catalogs offer total control over asset metadata, they can be challenging, risky, and expensive to develop.
In contrast, the Watson Knowledge Catalog offers a more cost-effective option, extending standard asset types and creating new ones, similar to the configurators in the Siemens Industry Mall. It allows users to effortlessly discover and share data and other assets across their organization. Every asset in the Watson Knowledge Catalog carries common properties such as name, description, and tags, along with specific properties based on their type, akin to the breakdown in the Siemens Industry Mall product catalogue.
In addition, users can define custom asset types via API, adding asset properties unique to their organization. The API request includes details like type, description, and visibility for each property. For instance, creating three custom metadata properties for a data asset: alias, environment, and review date. Once the custom asset type is created, the custom attributes become visible on the asset overview screen under the "details" section.
These custom asset type definitions are catalog-specific, allowing users to define different sets of custom attributes for different catalogs. This level of detail and customization is similar to the Siemens Industry Mall's product catalogue and configurators, enabling a more efficient and optimized asset management process.
In summary, the Siemens Industry Mall's product catalogue and configurators play a crucial role in promoting efficiency and optimization. They facilitate a user-friendly approach to asset selection and customization, mirroring the best practices for IT asset management. By offering these resources, the Siemens Industry Mall significantly streamlines the process of asset optimization.
7. Multilingual Access: Bridging Language Barriers for Global Users
The Siemens Industry Mall, an international platform, is designed to bridge language barriers with its multilingual interface. This feature is instrumental in promoting asset optimization in the industrial sector on a global scale. The platform's multilingual capabilities are reminiscent of the Public Knowledge Project (PKP) software, with an emphasis on delivering a wide range of languages for its interfaces, content, and documentation.
Localization, a process of translating software interfaces and content into various languages, is a key strategy employed by the Siemens Industry Mall. This approach ensures the platform is accessible to users from different geographical locations. The platform also utilizes translation tools, similar to PKP software, to expedite the localization process, saving substantial time and effort.
In a similar vein to PKP software's language packs, Siemens Industry Mall offers downloadable packages encompassing translated versions of the software interface and content. Users can install these language packs to switch the software to their preferred language.
Furthermore, the Siemens Industry Mall extends its multilingual support to documentation and other support materials. Resources such as user guides, tutorials, and forums are available in various languages, fostering a more inclusive and user-friendly experience. The platform is continuously updated to ensure new features and enhancements are available in multiple languages, thereby keeping pace with user needs and expectations.
To access language options on the Siemens Industry Mall, users can navigate directly to the website. Upon arrival, they can locate the language options within the website's interface or navigation menu. By selecting the desired language, users can navigate the website and access information in their preferred language. This feature ensures that users from different regions can understand the content on Siemens Industry Mall easily.
In the realm of industrial integration, Siemens Industry Mall stands out with its unique value proposition. Despite the competitive offerings of Lilt, which include enterprise AI controls and in-app multimodal translation, Siemens Industry Mall maintains its focus on industrial integration.
In essence, the Siemens Industry Mall, through its multilingual interface and support, ensures that asset optimization transcends regional or linguistic boundaries. It embodies the essence of globalization and industrial integration, making it an essential platform for operations directors worldwide.
Conclusion
In conclusion, asset optimization plays a vital role in the industrial sector by enhancing the value and performance of assets throughout their lifecycle. The seamless integration of asset management systems, such as those provided by Makini, enables organizations to make data-driven decisions in real-time, leading to efficient utilization and improved productivity. Real-world examples like UtilityCo and Seattle Public Utilities demonstrate the significant benefits of asset optimization strategies, including cost savings, improved reliability, and enhanced efficiency. Despite challenges related to data quality, talent and capabilities, change management, and implementation and governance, the rewards of asset optimization are substantial. By understanding the importance of asset optimization, organizations can streamline their operations and achieve maximum efficiency in the industrial sector.
The significance of asset optimization extends beyond individual organizations. It has broader implications for the industrial sector as a whole. By optimizing assets, companies can reduce operational costs and capital expenditures while increasing productivity and profitability. This not only benefits the organizations themselves but also contributes to the overall growth and development of the industrial sector. Furthermore, asset optimization strategies can lead to improved reliability and performance, which is crucial in industries such as utilities where downtime can have significant consequences. By adopting innovative solutions like Makini's asset management systems, organizations can stay ahead of the competition and drive industry-wide progress.
To learn how Makini’s Unified API can help you build 100+ product integrations with ease by scheduling a demo with one of our integration experts visit Makini.io.
