HENEGAR SLP 3

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Central Washington University *

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Business

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Jan 9, 2024

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1 BUS300 SLP 3 Tyler Henegar Trident University International BUS300 Introduction to Operations Management Due Date: 6/4/23

BUS300 SLP 3 Introduction Industry 4.0, also known as the fourth industrial revolution, has revolutionized the way operations are conducted in various industries today. It represents the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) into manufacturing processes. With the advent of Industry 4.0, businesses can optimize their operations, increase efficiency, and achieve higher levels of productivity by leveraging the power of automation, connectivity, and data-driven decision-making. Background Industry 4.0 refers to the integration of advanced technologies and digitalization into industrial operations. It represents a shift in manufacturing and operations, leveraging the power of automation, data exchange, and AI to create smart, interconnected systems. Industry 4.0 has transformed traditional production processes by enabling real-time data collection, analysis, and communication between machines, products, and humans. In today's operations, Industry 4.0 plays a vital role in enhancing efficiency, productivity, and flexibility. Smart factories equipped with IoT sensors, robotics, and machine learning algorithms enable seamless connectivity and intelligent decision-making. Real-time data from various sources, such as machines, sensors, and supply chain systems, are collected and analyzed, providing actionable insights to optimize processes, predict maintenance needs, and identify potential bottlenecks. This data-driven approach enables proactive decision-making, reduces downtime, improves resource allocation, and enhances overall operational performance (Industry 4.0: What Manufacturing Looks Like in the Digital Era, 2022). 2

BUS300 SLP 3 Cisco Systems Inc. Best Practices Cisco Systems Inc. is taking full advantage of Industry 4.0, otherwise known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution. A great example of this is Cisco using augmented reality to create simulations of designs and processes before they start production. Because this does not require tangible items to create mock-ups, cisco is saving a fortune conducting their work virtually. This process also significantly speeds up the process for getting new designs to production, safely and efficiently (Hilla, 2020). Another tool Cisco is using is additive manufacturing. This is also known as 3D printing, allowing Cisco to execute rapid prototyping at fractions of the cost of regular prototype design. Saving money-generating parts by avoiding the consumption of raw materials other than what is required of the 3D printers. Not only are they creating prototypes, but they also are taking full advantage of the 3D printing capabilities by designing replacement parts for their products. This allows for expedited maintenance and replacement of broken products (Hilla, 2020). Lastly, Cisco is using a fantastic product and perhaps one of the greatest tools of the 21 st century, Artificial intelligence. Cisco uses AI to conduct process setup, aid manufacturing in future machine learning activities, and troubleshooting activities. AI capabilities alone are causing companies like Cisco to leap lightyears ahead of companies not engaged with AI. While this type of technology is new to humans, it is being refined daily in very positive ways, as well as some concerning ways. For now, Cisco is utilizing AI responsibly to conduct its business operations (Hilla, 2020). Applications In relation to companies using AI, there are many other benefits that come to light. AI is going to increase a company’s efficiency and productivity gains tremendously. This is one of the 3

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BUS300 SLP 3 most popular cited benefits when making the switch to AI use. AI can conduct tasks faster than humans at an unimaginable speed. For example, if a manager asks an employee to scrub a list in Excel, highlighting deficiencies within the company might take days or weeks. AI can identify these discrepancies in a matter of seconds. This alone can save the company massive amounts of money in man-hours (Pratt, 2023). Another excellent application is companies using augmented reality to conduct inventory. Companies like Walmart and other major stores that require massive amounts of product inventory are making the switch to AR. Rather than scanning each individual box, handheld AR devices allow the employee to point a camera at a stack of boxes. The AR will then identify the boxes ready to be pulled and stocked on shelves, rather than scanning each individual box. This is a perfect example of how these best practices can shave off man hours of employees conducting tedious work. This opens the door for more time to conduct other tasks, maximizing store efficiency (Gilliland, 2021). Conclusion In conclusion, Industry 4.0 has revolutionized operations in today's business landscape. The integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet, big data analytics, and automation has led to increased efficiency and productivity. Companies are receiving real-time data and analytics to bolster their supply chain, improve manufacturing processes, and enhance overall operations. The connectivity of machines, systems, and humans has enabled a new level of collaboration and agility, allowing organizations to respond quickly to market demands and gain a competitive edge. As one embraces Industry 4.0, one can expect further advancements and transformative changes in operations, shaping the future of business. 4

BUS300 SLP 3 References Gilliland, N. (2021, May 12). 14 examples of augmented reality brand experiences. Econsultancy . https://econsultancy.com/14-examples-augmented-reality-brand- marketing-experiences/ Hilla, C. (2020). Realizing Industry 4.0. Cisco Blogs. https://blogs.cisco.com/manufacturing/realizing-industry-4-0 Industry 4.0: What Manufacturing Looks Like in the Digital Era. (2022, January 10). Visual Capitalist. https://www.visualcapitalist.com/sp/industry-4-0-what-manufacturing-looks- like-in-the-digital-era/ Pratt, M. K. (2023). 7 key benefits of AI for business. Enterprise AI. https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterpriseai/feature/6-key-benefits-of-AI-for- business#:~:text=Efficiency%20and%20productivity%20gains%20are,that%20humans %20can't%20match . 5

HENEGAR SLP 3

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