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From the people point of view, we want to automate as many processes as possible that remove the mundane. No one wants to be doing that mundane work like producing PDF drawings, there's no real value in that for the engineer. If we can automate that away, they can spend more time adding value. We want to use people's time in the most effective way possible, so they enjoy the work they do.
Key Benefits of Digitalization in Manufacturing
1. Enhanced efficiency and reduced waste
Digital tools provide manufacturers with the ability to continuously monitor and optimize production processes. By leveraging real-time data and analytics, companies can identify inefficiencies, reduce material waste, and minimize energy consumption. IoT sensors for example, enable more accurate tracking of inventory and workflow performance, while advanced scheduling tools reduce idle machine time and labor mismatches.
2. Predictive maintenance for asset longevity
Moving beyond scheduled or reactive maintenance, predictive maintenance uses sensor data and machine learning to forecast equipment issues before they happen. This proactive approach helps manufacturers prevent unplanned downtime, lower maintenance costs, and extend asset life. In fact, predictive maintenance can reduce maintenance costs by up to 25% and improve equipment availability by 10–15%, while reducing breakdowns by 70% (McKinsey & Company).
3. Improved product quality and consistency
With intelligent monitoring systems and AI-driven quality control, manufacturers can detect production anomalies early, allowing immediate corrections that maintain product integrity. This leads to fewer defects, reduced rework, and higher customer satisfaction. Data insights also enable continuous improvement, empowering teams to refine processes over time.
4. Sustainable Manufacturing Practices
Digitalization supports environmentally responsible operations by enabling smarter resource usage and minimizing waste. From reducing paper documentation through digital workflows to optimizing energy consumption via data-driven automation, digital tools contribute to greener manufacturing without sacrificing productivity.
5. Future-Ready, Sustainable Operations
Digital platforms are designed to scale and adapt. Whether integrating edge computing for real-time decision-making, adopting AI-powered scheduling, or implementing IoT for predictive analytics, manufacturers can future-proof their operations. Importantly, digitalization helps reduce costly rework and supports preventative maintenance, which improves asset longevity and reduces total cost of ownership. Through digital twins and real-time simulation, manufacturers can test and validate production scenarios before implementation, minimizing risks and avoiding resource waste.
One standout example is Laettelement, a manufacturer that transitioned to 3D design with ARKANCE’s Be.Smart solutions to streamline prefabrication workflows. This shift enabled more efficient off-site production and enhanced collaboration across teams. Similarly, Edwards improved their CNC production workflows by automating the integration between design and manufacturing - reducing time-to-market and enhancing process reliability. Their recent case study highlights how targeted digital solutions helped them streamline production and increase output without compromising quality.
Warren Services is a strong example of manufacturing digitalization in action. Their adoption of browser-based, API-integrated platforms is helping them shift toward fully flexible, cloud-enabled manufacturing workflows.
As outlined in their case study, they have implemented a combination of Autodesk Inventor, AutoCAD Electrical, Vault Professional, and Fusion 360 Manufacturing Extension to streamline design-to-production workflows. Their use of cloud-hosted Autodesk Vault enables real-time collaboration across mechanical and electrical teams, even during remote work periods. They have digitized change management and document control, enhanced CNC programming with Fusion 360, and have begun extending these benefits to their turning operations.
Prefabrication, supported by digitalization, is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of smart manufacturing. It allows for more precise planning, reduced on-site labor, and less material waste - all of which contribute to faster delivery times and more predictable outcomes.
Overcoming Challenges in Digital Transformation
Despite the clear benefits, many manufacturers face hurdles in their digital journey. Upfront investment, system integration complexities, and employee training can all present barriers. But with a phased implementation approach, these challenges become manageable.
Start small: Focus on quick wins like automating manual processes or integrating IoT sensors for high-impact visibility.
Ensure interoperability: Work with experienced partners to ensure digital tools align with legacy systems.
Empower your workforce: Provide accessible training and support to build internal confidence and tech fluency.
Strengthen security: As operations become more connected, safeguarding digital assets through robust cybersecurity is essential.
How ARKANCE Facilitates Manufacturing Digitalization
At ARKANCE, we understand that every manufacturing operation is unique. That’s why we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Our team works closely with manufacturers to develop tailored digital transformation strategies that address specific operational challenges and long-term goals. We focus on sustainable, data-driven solutions that reduce waste, boost efficiency, and reinforce both operational resilience and business continuity.
As Autodesk’s largest global Platinum Partner, we also extend the value of Autodesk platforms through our proprietary Be.Smart solutions—built from real-world manufacturing challenges. These tools help bridge the gap between design, engineering, and production, creating an integrated ecosystem that accelerates performance and simplifies processes.
Our Be.Smart manufacturing portfolio includes:
Publisher4VLT: Automates the publishing of engineering documentation from Autodesk Vault with consistency and control.
ERP Connector: Connects Autodesk Vault data directly to ERP systems for improved traceability and workflow synchronization.
T4I: A free tool available exclusively to ARKANCE customers, simplifying Inventor interface management for increased productivity.
We offer:
Comprehensive technology assessment and roadmap planning
Implementation of CAD, CAM, PDM, MES, IoT
Custom integrations with legacy infrastructure and third-party systems
Ongoing training, adoption support, and expert consultation
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We developed Be.Smart manufacturing tools to solve the daily frustrations that slow down production teams. Our goal is to help customers unlock more value from their Autodesk investment, seamlessly integrate their systems, and empower teams to innovate with confidence.
Looking Ahead
The future of manufacturing lies in intelligent, connected, and sustainable operations. Whether you're managing a single plant or a global production network, digitalization is the path to better performance, fewer disruptions, and greater adaptability.
By integrating smart technologies into your daily operations, you can reduce risk, cut waste, improve product quality, and maintain the health of your assets - while building the resilience needed to adapt to future challenges and changing market conditions. Digital transformation is not just a technological shift - it's a strategic foundation for long-term competitiveness and growth.
To learn how ARKANCE can support your manufacturing digitalization journey, get in touch.