TESTIMONIAL BY CYRILLE PITEAU
At Doosan Bobcat EMEA, our IT strategy is to link up all our systems in all plants, worldwide, enabling us to analyse and optimise production processes
So, data is our key resource, and to tap into it, we need to surmount four challenges. Firstly, innovation is fast-paced, technology cycles are radically shorter than the lifespan of the machinery. Secondly, digital transformation in industry requires a rare combination of skillsets, so willingness to continuously learn is a key capability. This also applies to governance, the third challenge: here, executives need to understand that ROI will be visible long-term rather than short-term and we need to manage our stakeholders’ expectations. Lastly, digitising production processes requires a high degree of flexibility. You’re starting on a blank canvas. Everything is possible, and some avenues might not lead where you want to go. For instance, we needed to check for interoperability requirements with solutions already used by our colleagues in US.
That’s why, when we implemented an internet of things (IoT) solution at our Pontchâteau plant last year, I was looking for a partnership with a company whose understanding of the market would guide us and that could offer more than just a regular supplier-customer relationship. From the first meeting, SPIE proved to be that kind of partner. The team at Pontchâteau delivered well-defined requirements and supported the entire process. SPIE was involved at every stage, offering help, guidance, and the necessary flexibility. We have now taken the first step on our journey: digitisation (i.e., making data available). Next stages are digitalisation (automating production processes) and digital transformation (developing new business models). The future for the manufacturing industry is looking more and more digital. This is challenging – due to rising issues such as cybersecurity – but also exciting. It represents a real opportunity for increased customer-centricity.
