Homag's digital factory. A global optimization firm says that the manufacturing industry needs to address digitization issues in 2022.

The manufacturing industry has many issues facing them in 2022, such as a worker shortage, ongoing pandemic, supply of raw materials and components, and workforce scheduling. What should the focus be? 

Inform, the optimization specialist based in Aachen, Germany, has compiled a list of five needs that should be addressed in 2022. 

"Mechanical engineering must take the next step in the digitization road map this year, especially given the continued effects of the pandemic, massive increases in costs of goods sold, and the continued trade conflicts and impending sanctions that are currently being instituted across most industries.  Economic uncertainty and fluctuations will occur more frequently in the future than they have in the past," said Justin Newell, Chief Operating Officer for Inform Software Corp. "However, with innovative digital optimization solutions, the industry can be better prepared for these challenges while becoming more sustainable and employee-friendly at the same time. This makes it easier for companies to reduce operating costs, to attract new customers, and to retain and build their skilled workforce."

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Larry Adams is a Chicago-based writer and editor who writes about how things get done. A former wire service and community newspaper reporter, Larry is an award-winning writer with more than three decades of experience. In addition to writing about woodworking, he has covered science, metrology, metalworking, industrial design, quality control, imaging, Swiss and micromanufacturing . He was previously a Tabbie Award winner for his coverage of nano-based coatings technology for the automotive industry. Larry volunteers for the historic preservation group, the Kalo Foundation/Ianelli Studios, and the science-based group, Chicago Council on Science and Technology (C2ST).

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