In a short essay, discuss technology's role in manufacturing

What will be an ideal response?

Answer: To connect more closely with customers, and to avoid bottlenecks and slowdowns, production in any organization must be synchronized and coordinated across the enterprise. What makes this kind of coordination possible is technology. For example, enterprise resource planning (ERP) software is a system that links all parts of an organization and its partners to the same database, allowing people across the organization to have access to sales, production, scheduling, budgets, and other forms of data.

Technology is also allowing organizations to control costs, particularly in the areas of predictive maintenance, remote diagnostics, and utility cost savings. For instance, new types of Internet-compatible equipment contain embedded Web servers that can communicate proactively to inform users that a device needs maintenance or servicing. These devices can do more than simply beep or light up an indicator button. For example, some devices have the ability to initiate email or signal a pager at a supplier, the maintenance department, or contractor describing the specific problem and requesting parts and service.