Digital Technologies Mid-Market Factories Need Post-COVID

Now is the time to invest in applying digital tools to manufacturing and supply chain for long-term success.

For manufacturers, the myriad supply chain, labor, and operational disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic have revealed both strengths and weaknesses. Those who have invested in efficiency and organizational agility are weathering the storm better. Don’t wait for the next crisis before equipping your company to respond to whatever the future may bring.

In the latest article from our operations and technology experts, Bill Remy and John Ferguson, explain how digital technologies for manufacturing and supply chain address all three challenges. If budgets are tight, start by maximizing the use of the data you already have readily available. Meanwhile, once exotic technologies incorporating artificial intelligence are becoming more affordable and accessible. You can invest in a more comprehensive digital system as your budget allows.

3 challenges of modern manufacturing:

VISIBILITY: the ability to see what is going on in your business.
VARIABILITY: the ability to cope with change in supply, demand, and other variables in the market and your own operations.
VELOCITY: speed in all its forms, from the ability to respond quickly to the speed of production to meet demand.

The one thing you can’t afford to do is nothing.

Complete the form below to download your copy of “Keeping Up with COVID-19: The Digital Manufacturing Technologies Every Plant Needs Right Now”.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are manufacturing technology decisions more critical for mid‑market manufacturers after COVID‑19?

Technology decisions are more critical because COVID‑19 exposed execution weaknesses that mid‑market manufacturers can no longer absorb with manual workarounds. The article explains that labor shortages, demand volatility, and supply chain disruption increased pressure on smaller organizations to do more with fewer resources. Technology is now a necessity for visibility and control, not a discretionary investment.

What types of manufacturing technologies matter most for mid‑market companies?

The article emphasizes technologies that improve execution visibility and decision‑making rather than highly complex automation. Systems that support real‑time performance tracking, scheduling, labor management, and equipment reliability provide the greatest impact. For mid‑market manufacturers, technology must simplify operations and reinforce discipline instead of adding complexity or requiring large IT teams.

How can mid‑market manufacturers avoid costly technology mistakes post‑COVID?

Mid‑market manufacturers avoid costly mistakes by aligning technology investments to execution readiness. The article highlights that technology should reinforce stable processes, clear accountability, and disciplined management routines. When digital tools are implemented on top of weak execution, they amplify problems instead of solving them. Focusing first on operational fundamentals ensures technology delivers real productivity and resilience rather than becoming an underused expense.

Meet the Expert

Bill Remy

Chief Executive Officer & Board MemberEmail Bill

Bill Remy is the CEO of TBM Consulting Group and serves on the TBM Board of Directors. His career expertise includes deep knowledge of operational performance improvement, site transitions, acquisition integration, new product development and supply chain management.