Three pivotal forces—digitalisation, data economy, and artificial intelligence—are reshaping the manufacturing sector. Gone are the days when the physical shop floor was the epicenter of operations. Today, the digital workspace serves as a hub for information, collaboration, and innovation. But what does this shift mean for manufacturing organisations like yours?
The Digital Workspace: More Than Just a Trend
The transformation in manufacturing is driven by three major megatrends: the digitalisation of everything, the exponential growth of data, and the application of artificial intelligence for analysing massive datasets. These forces are as transformative for manufacturing as electricity was a century ago. The message is clear: adapt or risk falling behind in productivity and competitiveness.
AI and Data: The New Co-Pilots in Manufacturing
Artificial intelligence and data analytics are no longer optional; they are essential tools for optimising processes—from supply chain management to quality control. The data economy is not just a buzzword; it represents a paradigm shift that requires a fundamental rethinking of operational models.
The Physical vs. Digital Factory Floor
The traditional factory floor is evolving into a digital ecosystem complete with digital twins, virtual collaboration spaces, and data-driven decision-making tools. This does not signal the end of physical spaces but rather their integration into a more flexible, digitally-augmented environment. For instance, maintenance mechanics can now guide machine operators through repairs in real time using digital twins and augmented reality—right from their office.
Breaking Down Rigid Practices
There is a pressing need to dismantle rigid and outdated practices in manufacturing. Shifting work methods to embrace digital workflows—whether by automating routine tasks or adopting agile methodologies—enables the industry to shed its old skin and embrace more dynamic and responsive practices. Without this shift, companies risk inhibiting flexible work structures that promote individual freedom and responsibility, ultimately impacting productivity and competitiveness.
AI: A Catalyst for Change
AI is not just a tool but a catalyst for change, enabling faster, more efficient, and cost-effective operations. “How do we keep all employees up to date with new tools such as artificial intelligence?” asks Merja Ranta-aho, Elisa’s Head of HR. “The starting point is trust in people and their desire to do their work well. It is worth involving employees in discussions about which digital workplace practices make work more efficient and help them perform better.”
Introducing AI gradually—starting with tasks that ease employees’ daily routines—ensures that workers are included in the digital transformation and that efficiency gains accrue naturally. “The faster we humans learn to use new tools and change work practices, the faster work productivity will start to rise,” summarises Kristo Lehtonen of the Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra.
Are You Ready for the Digital Evolution?
The digital workspace is not a distant future but a present reality. The question is no longer whether to adapt, but how quickly. At Elisa IndustrIQ, we believe in engaging collaborative dialogues—both internally and with industry partners—to co-create solutions offering modular flexibility, data-driven insights, and a holistic view of the digital manufacturing ecosystem. How ready is your organisation for the data economy and the digital world? Let’s discuss integrating these insights into your digital transformation strategy.
