Why Digital Manufacturing Companies Need Data Scientists

Traditional, large-volume manufacturers often have one goal in mind--reduce costs associated with making high volumes of a single item by producing as many parts as possible in the shortest amount of time. That business model works for high-volume products, particularly if automation can be deployed, but it ignores innovation and the competitive edge created by digital manufacturing. The convergence of software and flexible manufacturing makes quick-turn prototyping and low-volume, on-demand production of custom parts fast and economical. In addition, digital manufacturers capture massive amounts of data across their business from the first customer engagement, through the sales and quoting process, and throughout the manufacturing and fulfillment processes. To take full advantage of all the information, understand the complexity of a high product mix and optimize business, companies need sophisticated analytics that cross business domains.