How better data collection drives smarter manufacturing decisions

Change isn’t optional in manufacturing. But making change stick is.Janet Bellamy (National Centre for Food Manufacturing, University of Lincoln) joins us to break down the people and technology blockers that stall progress and how to overcome them with clear expectations, co-design, and quick wins the shop floor can feel.Highlights:Reduce friction with a single, simple operator experienceMap the real process across roles to expose hidden workDeal with interoperability early; plan for access to data, not just APIsEarn trust with visible gains (e.g., energy savings from compressor/defrost tuning)Look ahead: targeted digitalization, real-time data, and practical AI where it helpsSubscribe to Manufacturing Matters on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or Amazon Music.Questions or ideas: [email protected]

In this episode of Factbird’s Manufacturing Matters Podcast, we sit down with Luke Savage to explore his journey from leadership consulting in factories to helping manufacturers succeed with digital tools like Factbird.Luke shares why traditional paper-based processes often create more burden than value, how cultural differences shape digital transformation, and what leaders can do today to get teams aligned and engaged. He also explains why empathy is essential in driving adoption and how simple digital tools can improve performance while making work more rewarding on the shop floor.Topics covered in this episode:The shift from consulting to software in manufacturingWhy paper-based systems fail on the shop floorRegional differences in celebrating successCommon challenges with introducing new technologyPractical advice for manufacturing leadersThe role of AI and human engagement in the futureListen now to learn how manufacturers can move from analog overload to digital simplicity.

In this episode of Manufacturing Matters, we sit down with Andrew Jarrells, Head of North America at Factbird, to explore how food and beverage manufacturers can reduce waste, boost efficiency, and make smarter decisions.We cover:What counts as “waste” and why it’s more than just product lossThe growing pressure from ESG, energy costs, and consumer demandHow to track food waste more accurately with real-time dataSmall but powerful fixes, from compressors to vision systemsWhy digital visibility is now a must-have for operational resilienceWould you like to skip to the solution? Check out Factbird’s Production Insights app which helps teams reduce waste, improve OEE, and make decisions based on real-time, reliable data.

If you’re on a journey to become a smart factory, or just a smarter one, connectivity is essential. As you connect more machines, sensors, and systems, you need a reliable way to get data from the shop floor to the people and tools that can use it.That’s where cellular IoT comes in. It’s a practical solution already helping manufacturers monitor equipment, track assets, and make better decisions in real time.We spoke with Esben at Onomondo, a global cellular infrastructure provider, to understand why cellular IoT is gaining traction and how manufacturers can use it to build more agile, more connected operations.

In this episode of Factbird's Manufacturing Matters Podcast, we explore the key trends that will impact manufacturing shop floors in 2025 and beyond. Your host, Michael Bosson, sat down with Søren Schønnemann, CEO of Factbird, to discuss how macro-level risks and challenges are shaping the future of manufacturing. We cover: Geopolitical uncertainties affecting supply chains and market stability 👷 Aging workforces and the resulting skill gaps in manufacturing 🔒 Cybersecurity threats arising from rapid technological deployment 🌱 Sustainability and ESG concerns driving new regulations and strategies ⚙️ Staying competitive in a rapidly changing market environment 🤖 Exploration of AI and Machine Learning in manufacturing operations And real advice on how to navigate this challenging manufacturing environment. This episode is packed with insights to help you navigate the future of manufacturing and position your operations for success.

In this episode of Factbird's Manufacturing Matters Podcast, we dive into the crucial factors to consider when purchasing manufacturing sensors. David Pavone, an expert in sensor technology, discusses how choosing the right sensors can have a big impact on your production efficiency and bottom line. David shares insights on balancing cost and performance, considerations around environmental conditions, handling harsh production environments, and real-world examples. This episode is packed with practical advice to help you make informed decisions when selecting sensors for your operations. You can read the full article and explore more episodes at: ⁠https://www.factbird.com/manufacturing-matters-podcast⁠.

In this episode of Factbird's Manufacturing Matters Podcast, we explore the essential role of condition monitoring in modern manufacturing with insights from Sterre, Factbird’s Account Manager for BeNeLux. Condition monitoring is more than maintenance; it’s about actively tracking production conditions like temperature, humidity, and vibration to ensure product quality and prevent waste. Sterre explains how monitoring upstream processes can enhance quality control, optimize resource use, and support sustainable production goals. Tune in to learn how manufacturers can overcome common challenges in implementing condition monitoring, from integrating with older equipment to breaking down data silos. This episode is packed with practical advice for companies looking to boost efficiency and improve their bottom line. You can read the full article and explore more episodes at: ⁠https://www.factbird.com/manufacturing-matters-podcast⁠.

In this episode of Factbird's Manufacturing Matters Podcast, we sit down with Adrienne, Customer Success Manager at Factbird, to discuss the pivotal role customer success plays in helping manufacturers implement and fully integrate new software for long-term success. Adrienne shares valuable insights on overcoming challenges during manufacturing software implementation, driving team-wide adoption, and navigating change management in the fast-paced manufacturing industry. She discusses how building strategic partnerships turns software tools into catalysts for growth. Don't miss this opportunity to gain knowledge from an expert dedicated to enhancing manufacturing operations through effective customer success strategies. You can read the in-depth article about this podcast and more at: ⁠https://www.factbird.com/manufacturing-matters-podcast⁠.

In this episode of Manufacturing Matters, we talk with Benjamin Ravn, Plant Director at Albani/Royal Unibrew, about implementing sustainable change in the manufacturing industry for long-term success. Benjamin shares how focusing on leadership alignment, behavior and engagement, and learning and development can transform your organization. He also discusses how leveraging safety, quality, performance management, and strategic maintenance can drive meaningful change. Don't miss this opportunity to gain insights from a leader who is actively making a difference in the industry. You can read the in-depth article about this podcast and more at: ⁠⁠https://www.factbird.com/manufacturing-matters-podcast⁠⁠.

In this episode of Manufacturing Matters, Finn Hunneche, co-founder of Emendo Consulting and Factbird, discusses how manufacturing can benefit from human intelligence.  He investigates how factories should be more human-like in their ability to sense and act. Finn compares this to "developing an immune system for a company." In effect, fighting off problems as they arise or, at the very least, raising the temperature to make you aware of them.  You can read the in-depth article about this podcast and more at: ⁠⁠https://www.factbird.com/manufacturing-matters-podcast⁠⁠.