The pandemic has created a greater need than ever before for companies that are both digitally resilient and intensely focused on strong digital initiatives.  Today’s guest represents a company that has excelled at both, and has experienced continued growth, even during the pandemic, as a result.  Thom Singer and Craig Brown welcome return podcast guest Susanne Lauda, the Director of Global Advanced Manufacturing Technology at AGCO. Susanne uses the latest technology to improve her company’s productivity.  Today she shares the successes AGCO has experienced over the last year and weighs in on key factors that have resulted in minimal disruption during the pandemic, from the ever-increasing importance of digital resilience to the power of a digitally correct thread.

 

On today’s podcast, you will learn:

Handling orders during the pandemic

• The ability to build anywhere has greatly helped companies despite the shut-down. 
• Companies that have been able to fulfill orders during the pandemic have expanded. 
• Disruptions in the supply chain have required changes in consumer preferences, and resulted in required changes to the market environment. 

 

Utilizing digital initiatives during the pandemic

• Companies who were prepared were able to pivot to a home office environment overnight with little interruption. 
• Digital tools have enabled greater planning and a greater ability to work from home.
• Production companies have been able to produce extra PPE and other essential equipment. 
• Digital has helped overcome supplier issues and continue deliveries to customers. 

 

The importance of digital thread correctness

• Companies have realized that remote working options are critical, even for the shop floor, which means virtual tools are gaining importance. 
• Communication with customers requires effective service and correct information. 
• Increased digital tools decrease the manpower required to man stations, supporting social distance requirements. 

 

Lessons learned from digitally resilient companies

• This pandemic will continue to accelerate the digital transformation. 
• Spread will be minimized as less people are required to man the workforce. 
• More meetings than previously thought can effectively be held virtually. 
• Don’t be afraid of technology as you pursue your career. 
• Create a network and attend industry conferences when you can. 

 

Susanne on Digital Enterprise Society Episode 40- Leaning into Smart Engineering

 

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