Prescriptive guidance to help small and midsize manufacturers implement and benefit from smart manufacturing technologies

(PITTSBURGH, June 4, 2024) – SME Media, the publishing division of SME, the nonprofit dedicated to the advancement of manufacturing technology and fostering manufacturing and engineering talent and capabilities in North America, recently launched Smart Shop Essentials, a multi-platform initiative designed to help small and midsize manufacturers (SMMs) understand, access and deploy smart manufacturing solutions.

Although more than 75 percent of U.S. manufacturing companies have fewer than 20 employees, with 98 percent having less than 500, most smart manufacturing resources and decision-making tools have typically been geared toward large enterprise organizations. 

Targeted to the specific needs and challenges of SMMs, Smart Shop Essentials draws on the deep expertise of SME and its industry-leading partners to provide a roadmap for navigating and deploying smart manufacturing processes, technologies, systems and workforce development strategies for the underserved SMM market. 

“Smart manufacturing solutions have enormous potential to change the manufacturing landscape for manufacturers of all sizes,” said Bob Willig, SME executive director and CEO. “There’s never been a greater need for prescriptive guidance for SMMs eager to thrive in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Smart Shop Essentials is designed to deliver relevant, straightforward information and best practices to accelerate SMM adoption of smart manufacturing.”

Smart Shop Essentials is published as a pull-out print publication available inside each issue of Smart Manufacturing magazine; it also has a strong digital presence on AdvancedManufacturing.org/smart-shop-essentials. Editorial content will provide practical guidance, insightful analysis of industry trends and a wealth of valuable information to help SMMs kickstart and advance their smart manufacturing journey. 

Topics featured in the inaugural June issue include how to “go lean” with tools already on hand, sorting through the hype and hope of Industry 4.0 and a quick primer on deciphering smart manufacturing jargon. Upcoming issues will delve into the prerequisites of smart manufacturing, creating a culture of transformation and facilitating a “smart” workforce.

As Smart Shop Essentials grows, the program will incorporate additional digital content, webinars, podcasts and live events. Underwriting sponsorship partnerships are available for companies interested in sharing their expertise, engaging with SMM decision-makers and advancing smart manufacturing. 

“Our Smart Shop Essentials underwriting partners stand out as progressive thinkers, thought leaders and impact makers committed to helping SMMs get the tools they need to embrace innovative solutions,” said Jake Volcsko, vice president, Integrated Media for SME.

About SME

Established in 1932 as a nonprofit organization, SME represents the entire North American manufacturing industry, including manufacturers, academia, professionals, students and the communities in which they operate. We believe manufacturing holds the key to economic growth and prosperity, and champion the industry's potential as a diverse, thriving and valued ecosystem. SME accelerates new technology adoption and builds North America’s talent and capabilities to advance manufacturing and drive competitiveness, resiliency and national security. SME designs new ways to understand and solve problems, and our solutions advance the next wave of growth in manufacturing. Learn more at SME.org.