Bringing manufacturers together across the smiley curve
Over the last seven webinars, Australian manufacturers have come together to learn more about the seven steps across the manufacturing value chain.
Over 200 manufacturers registered each week to AMGC’s series of webinars that illuminated the opportunities available to manufacturers by embracing the entire manufacturing value chain—known as the Smiley Curve.
The traditional view—that manufacturing is comprised solely of production—is simply not true. The seven steps across the pre- and post-production phases offer manufacturers a range of opportunities to add considerable value to their existing products and business methods.
The Seven Steps Across the Manufacturing Value Chain
Step 1. Research and Development (R&D)
If you want to remain competitive and understand current market conditions, then R&D is essential. It is R&D that enables manufacturers to introduce new, and innovate existing, products and services. Collaboration with research institutions, such as universities, can help you expand your R&D capabilities to commercialise innovation and break into new markets.
Watch a recording of the Research and Development webinar.
Step 2. Design
Design offers Australian manufacturers a range of benefits. Advanced design strategies streamline the production process to improve efficiency and productive. Digital design and rapid prototyping lead to lower product development costs and improved product customisation opportunities, both of which can help you differentiate yourself from your competitors. Collaboration with design companies and other manufacturers only enhances these benefits.
Watch a recording of the Design webinar.
Step 3. Logistics
From the purchase of raw materials, through to production, shipping and supply chain management, Logistics encompasses a broad spectrum of services. Efficient logistic processes can help you reduce your costs, increase productivity, enter different markets and access global supply chains. Working with professional logistics businesses or experts can help you leverage all these potential improvements.
Watch a recording of the Logistics webinar.
Step 4. Production
Production processes have evolved over the years. Today, the most successful manufacturers take advantage of intelligent production processes and automation, new technology and equipment, and score highly on measures like energy and water efficiency. With companies and experts specialising in areas like robotics and sensor technology, collaborating with industry professionals can accelerate your production improvements.
Watch a recording of the Production webinar.
Step 5. Distribution
Once production is complete, your product needs to be shared with customers and markets. Successful manufacturers are more likely to engage in global trade, exporting highly customised, highly valuable products and services into specialised or underserved markets. Efficient distribution processes and channels can help you enter different markets and global supply chains. Employing the help of a specialised distribution company or expert can be invaluable.
Watch a recording of the Distribution webinar.
Step 6. Sales
Consumers are more savvy than ever these days. So, your sales processes need to shift towards focusing on customers’ needs. Strong, personalised sales processes can help your manufacturing company secure new customers and enter different markets, domestically and globally. Collaborating with a sales expert could help you create a tailored sales plan and suite of activities.
Watch a recording of the Sales webinar.
Step 7. Services
Manufacturing does not stop when your product rolls off the production line. Consumers expect personalised after-sales customer service, as well as ongoing marketing and communications activities. Your Services need to focus on the needs of your customers, digitalisation, and start-to-end support. Strong, personalised services can bolster your reputation and brand, helping you secure new customers and enter different markets.