**London**: A report by Copia Automation reveals that outdated tools like Excel are causing significant inefficiencies in manufacturing and distribution, with companies wasting 45 hours monthly on debugging. Amid global trade uncertainties, businesses are encouraged to modernise to enhance productivity and bridge the skills gap among industrial coders.
A recent report by Copia Automation highlights significant inefficiencies in the manufacturing and distribution sectors, primarily stemming from the continued use of outdated tools such as Excel for managing industrial code. The 1st Annual State of Industrial DevOps Workforce Report reveals that 47% of organisations still depend on spreadsheets, which compromises productivity and leads to substantial time losses. On average, companies reportedly waste about 45 hours each month on debugging tasks, illuminating a pressing need for modernisation within these industries.
The backdrop of potential changes in trade policy and tariffs affecting relations between the US, Canada, Mexico, China, and other nations adds urgency to these findings. As many businesses navigate uncertainties, investing in modern technologies and processes may position them to respond effectively to shifting demands, especially as local production dynamics undergo a potential revival in response to recent global challenges, such as those experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite a strong focus on upskilling—92% of organisations report investment in employee training—the popularity of outdated practices like Excel hampers efforts to enhance overall operational efficiency. The survey conducted by Copia Automation indicates a clear disconnect: while many companies recognise the importance of employee satisfaction and modern tools to foster a better work-life balance, significant barriers remain in the form of antiquated systems that impair collaboration and version control.
Compounding the issue is a concerning statistic regarding the workforce itself—only 3% of industrial coders are classified as beginners, signalling a stark lack of entry-level professionals amidst a wave of experienced workers reaching retirement age at a rate of 10,000 per day in the U.S. This presents a crucial opportunity for organisations to bridge the skills gap through mentorship and knowledge exchange.
Copia CEO Adam Gluck vocalised the essential takeaway from the report, stating, “The manufacturing and distribution landscape is facing a period of uncertainty, with tariffs and global trade dynamics creating both challenges and opportunities.” He emphasised that regardless of the outcome of current trade discussions, organisations must prioritise efficiency and adaptability to build resilience.
The report serves as a guide for manufacturers and distributors aiming to improve operational resilience through a balanced focus on people, processes, and technology. By moving away from outdated tools and embracing Industrial DevOps principles, companies can enhance their agility, meet changing customer needs, and sustain growth amid evolving market conditions.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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