Data collection is a systematic process that involves gathering information to gain detailed insights and evaluate outcomes.

Methods of gathering data can either be qualitative or quantitative, utilizing these tools and processes, often developed and supplied by leading manufacturers, to maintain the integrity of the data. It can involve primary data collection, where data is collected firsthand, or indirect data collection, which relies on existing sources.

Read on and explore the power of impactful data collection, addressing its role and challenges. It is the driving force behind progress and innovation, propelling us toward a future where data-driven decisions reign supreme.

Importance of Collecting Data

Data collection is crucial for decision-making, problem-solving, and root cause analysis. Managers use various methods and tools to analyze data reports, providing reliable information for gaining insights.

The integrity of this data is protected through quality control measures and data management systems, which ensure precision and accuracy.

But it’s more than just accumulating data, it’s about collecting and storing accurate, relevant information that serves a crucial role in guiding strategies, root cause analysis, and informing decisions in today’s data-driven world.

Deloitte’s «2023 Manufacturing Industry Outlook» explores five trends reshaping the sector, with a significant emphasis on data collection and analysis. The report discusses how the workforce shortage and supply chain resiliency are pushing companies to leverage data for insights and decision-making.

Data Collection Methods

Data collection in manufacturing is the process of gathering and storing data. Collecting data covers a range of methods, including primary and secondary data collection. The following methods are fundamental for any data-driven task:

Primary Collection Method

This method allows for the collection of both quantitative data, which involves numbers and measurements, and subjective data, which captures insights and opinions. Primary data offers a high degree of accuracy and specificity since it’s tailored to the business goals.

Secondary Collection Method

Secondary data collection relies on existing data sources that were originally collected for other purposes. This data can come from reports or customer data. While it offers convenience and often costs less, managers must carefully assess the relevance and reliability of these data.

Combining Methods

Manufacturers can utilize both primary and secondary data collection techniques to improve data accuracy and analysis. The selection between these two data gathering techniques depends on production objectives, accessible resources, and the degree of control needed over the data. Integrating both methods can often produce a complete and balanced dataset, enriching the thoroughness of analysis and the credibility of production outcomes.

Data Collection and Analysis with Shoplogix

Effective data collection is a cornerstone of manufacturing success. Shoplogix’s software offers universal connectivity, enabling it to connect to both old and new machines.

• Automated Data Collection: The software automates the collection of real-time data from connected machines. This automation not only enhances data accuracy but also its relevance to your manufacturing processes.
• Real-Time Analysis: With data digitized and collected in real time, quick corrective actions can be taken on the shop floor, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.
• Historical Analysis: Beyond immediate responses, the stored data allows for historical analysis, enabling manufacturers to identify continuous improvement opportunities over time.

The blend of primary (real-time) and secondary (historical) collection methods leads to a comprehensive dataset. This quality and consistency of data-powered decisions, effectively addressing real-world manufacturing challenges. With Shoplogix, the right tools are in place to ensure a seamless and efficient data collection process, driving a high level of performance on your shop floor.

Ideal Solution for Your Data Collection Process

Shoplogix is a revolutionary platform that harnesses the power of data collection to optimize plant performance, reduce waste, and drive profitability. Digital whiteboards collect and display data in real time, leading towards three transformative solutions: universal connectivity, digitization and visualization, and analytics.

Solution #1: Universal Connectivity

Firstly, Shoplogix’s universal connectivity capability eliminates the potential for human errors caused by manual data collection. This system allows for seamless integration with almost any machine—be it new or old—with minimal infrastructure upgrades required. This automated data collection provides a true representation of key metrics, driving powerful analytics from a single signal and eliminating the need for manual data collection.

Solution #2: Digitization and Visualization

The second solution, digitization and visualization, revolutionizes plant-wide visibility. Shoplogix transforms antiquated manual tracking systems into digestible metrics and production data. This empowers plant operators, managers, and executives to make informed decisions quickly. The Smart Factory Suite collects data to produce key production metrics like overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), scrap, downtime, cycle times, availability, and performance. Furthermore, it displays this data in an accessible format on any device, facilitating day-to-day processes and meetings to drive action and accountability.

Solution #3: Analytics

Lastly, Shoplogix’s analytics solution leverages historical data to identify opportunities for continuous improvement. It offers pre-built and customizable dashboards that allow every user to tailor their interface to their unique needs. This function analyzes OEE, utilization, scrap, and downtime data across the entire plant, standardizing metrics for comparative analysis across machines, lines, departments, and products. Additionally, it pulls data from external sources to further enhance enterprise-wide standardization efforts.

The Bottom Line

Data collection is a crucial process for gaining insights and evaluating outcomes, with methods ranging from primary to indirect data collection. It’s integral for decision-making, problem-solving, and root cause analysis.

Shoplogix’s Smart Factory Suite offers universal connectivity, automating real-time data collection from machines and enabling swift corrective actions that will allow for historical analysis to identify long-term improvement opportunities for your manufacturing process.