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24 SMT007 MAGAZINE I SEPTEMBER 2022 job satisfaction from making complex deci- sions in an easy and timely way, based on the availabilit y of immediate, accurate, and contextualized knowledge. The intelligence within MES is based on internal complex data models, created from many years of experi- ence, where data is contextualized across many factors. is enables soware to take routine decisions and action them, such as the best timing and selection of a material replenish- ment. is enhances the human contribution in manufacturing to work at a higher level of responsibility and provides for more job satisfaction. Here is where we see the benefits. As an inherent part of digital transformation, so- ware-based automation that is intelligent and flexible helps resolve both day-to-day business operations, and supports challenging excep- tions. It starts with the respect for human intel- ligence, a change that we have begun to take seriously, and is potentially the most funda- mental challenge of anything we've faced so far. It may come as a bit of a surprise, though the signs have been there for a while. People want to be more evolved, to get their hands dirty through their chosen hobbies, rather than daily obligations. As humans have le manu- facturing operations for whatever reasons, it took out their wealth of skills, knowledge, and intelligence, which perhaps was oen taken for granted. It has been especially noticeable dur- ing the pandemic when many business-critical exceptions needed to be dealt with. Intelligent soware built into automation and machines, and especially modern MES solutions, will fill the gaps. e key requirement is a rich and mature internal data model: • Representing knowledge about every aspect of the manufacturing operation • Making and executing routine decisions, with significant flexibility • Providing key intel to humans with which their intelligence results in real business differentiation Conclusion As we move forward, we need to revisit our business practices. Operational risk and depen- dencies in the supply chain as well as ineffi- ciencies in terms of environmental impact and energy use are sure to be top of mind. We must revisit our strategies behind digital transfor- mation, not just to help automate and optimize existing, fixed operations, but to provide flex- ibility, to relieve humans from the distractions of data gathering and trivial decision-making, and to create a sustainable and resilient envi- ronment. In between challenges, we will be tempted to revert and focus too intently on short-term goals. Such a strategy helps business for only a short term, while cannibalizing future poten- tial. Let's seize the benefits that this silver lining has presented and be prepared for any future challenges when they come. By doing so, we increase the quality of life for our human teams that are essential to meet sustainable business objectives. SMT007 Michael Ford is the senior director of emerging industry strategy for Aegis Software. To read past columns, click here.