The manufacturing industry is constantly evolving, and staying competitive demands seamless integration of technology into every facet of production. Yes, this includes automation and artificial intelligence, but let’s not forget good old-fashioned IT support. So, what does IT support for manufacturing really look like? Is it a nice-to-have or an absolute necessity? And most importantly, should you build your own IT support team or rely on outsourcing?
Recent data shows that 37% of businesses outsource at least part of their IT operations, while others are increasingly considering dedicated in-house teams tailored to their specific needs. This decision is especially critical in manufacturing, where even a minor system glitch can lead to costly downtime.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about IT support for manufacturing, including:
- What IT support for manufacturing entails.
- The key reasons the manufacturing industry benefits from IT support.
- How to choose the right IT support system for your business.
Whether you’re all-in on outsourcing IT or thinking of building an in-house team, we’ll help you navigate the best choice for your manufacturing operations. Let’s dive in!
What does IT support for manufacturing mean?
IT support for manufacturing refers to the specialized technical assistance and services provided to ensure the smooth functioning of technology systems within a manufacturing environment. This encompasses everything from managing hardware and software to troubleshooting issues, maintaining network connectivity, and securing data.
In an industry where efficiency and precision are paramount, IT support acts as the backbone of operational stability.
Key components of IT support in manufacturing
#1: Hardware and Infrastructure Management
Manufacturing facilities often rely on a mix of legacy systems, modern machinery, and IoT (Internet of Things) devices. IT support ensures that these components communicate effectively, remain operational, and are regularly updated or replaced as needed. For example, supporting CNC machines or smart factory setups requires robust IT infrastructure.
IoT Device Management: Definition, Process And Software
#2: Software and system maintenance
Manufacturing enterprises use specialized software such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software, and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES). IT support involves installing, updating, and troubleshooting these tools to ensure they perform optimally.
#3: Cybersecurity and data protection
Manufacturing is increasingly targeted by cyberattacks. IT support ensures that sensitive production data, intellectual property, and customer information are safeguarded with measures like firewalls, encryption, and regular vulnerability assessments.
#4: Network connectivity and troubleshooting
In smart factories, uninterrupted connectivity between devices is essential for real-time monitoring and automation. IT support maintains the network infrastructure, resolves connectivity issues, and ensures data flows seamlessly across systems.
IT Support Costs: Key Factors And Budgeting Tips
Examples of IT support in action
Here are three examples of IT support in action. These illustrate why it’s so important for this particular industry to have IT support, whether it’s coming from a dedicated IT department or a third party.
- A production line suddenly stops due to a software glitch in the MES system. IT support teams step in to identify the root cause, apply a patch or reconfigure the system, and get operations running again, minimizing downtime.
- A manufacturing plant adopts IoT-enabled devices to monitor equipment performance. IT support ensures these devices are integrated into the broader network, regularly updated, and securely connected to prevent unauthorized access.
- An ERP system experiences performance lags during a critical supply chain process. IT support optimizes the software or adjusts server resources to restore efficiency.
In essence, IT support for manufacturing isn’t just about fixing computers—it’s about creating a robust, secure, and efficient technological foundation that enables production to run like clockwork. Whether it’s ensuring machinery communicates effectively, safeguarding sensitive data, or troubleshooting systems in real time, IT support is an indispensable ally for modern manufacturing.
7 reasons why the manufacturing industry will benefit from IT support
The manufacturing industry is built on efficiency, precision, and innovation. In such a demanding environment, IT support plays a pivotal role in streamlining operations, minimizing downtime, and driving growth. From maintaining critical systems to ensuring cybersecurity, having the right IT support—whether in-house or outsourced—offers numerous advantages tailored specifically to manufacturing.
Here are 7 key reasons why IT support is a game-changer for the manufacturing sector:
1. Minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity
Unplanned downtime can cost manufacturers thousands of dollars per minute. IT support ensures that systems remain operational by proactively monitoring for potential issues, performing regular maintenance, and resolving problems quickly when they arise. Whether it’s troubleshooting a production line stoppage or optimizing MES systems, IT teams help keep operations running smoothly.
The Cost of Downtime: How Much Does an IT Outage Cost Your Business?
2. Enhancing cybersecurity and protecting intellectual property
Manufacturing companies are prime targets for cyberattacks, with sensitive data like product designs, production schedules, and customer information at stake. IT support ensures robust cybersecurity measures are in place, such as firewalls, encrypted communication, and regular vulnerability testing, safeguarding valuable intellectual property and operational data.
3. Streamlining supply Chain Management
Manufacturing relies heavily on complex supply chains, and any disruptions can cascade into significant delays. IT support helps maintain ERP systems, which are vital for tracking inventory, managing orders, and coordinating with suppliers, ensuring a seamless flow of goods and materials.
4. Enabling smart manufacturing and IoT integration
The rise of smart manufacturing has transformed the industry, with IoT devices monitoring equipment, tracking production, and providing real-time insights. IT support facilitates the integration and maintenance of these technologies, ensuring they function effectively and securely.
IoT Device Management: Definition, Process And Software
5. Supporting compliance with industry regulations
Manufacturing is governed by strict standards and regulations, such as ISO certifications and environmental requirements. IT support assists in maintaining accurate records, automating compliance processes, and generating the necessary reports to meet these standards.
6. Improving decision-making through Data Management
Modern manufacturing generates massive amounts of data, from machine performance metrics to customer demand trends. IT support helps manage, analyze, and visualize this data, enabling informed decision-making that drives operational improvements and strategic growth.
7. Reducing long-term costs
While investing in IT support may seem like an added expense, it ultimately reduces long-term costs. By preventing costly downtime, optimizing system performance, and minimizing risks, IT support ensures manufacturers get the most value out of their technology investments.
How to choose an IT support system for manufacturing
When it comes to IT support for manufacturing, both outsourcing and in-house support are valid options. However, they cater to different needs and require distinct approaches.
The decision ultimately depends on your organization’s business goals, budget, and the complexity of your operations. Understanding the unique benefits and challenges of each option can help you make the best choice for your manufacturing environment.
When should I outsource IT support?
Outsourcing IT support is a great choice for manufacturing organizations that need access to a wide range of expertise without the overhead of maintaining an internal team. It is especially beneficial for businesses with limited IT resources or those that want predictable costs with clear service-level agreements. By outsourcing, your organization can rely on external specialists to manage tools, systems, and services, allowing your team to focus on production and strategic goals.
For example, an outsourced provider might handle the implementation and upkeep of complex technologies like MES, ERP platforms, or IoT devices. Additionally, outsourcing can provide 24/7 support, which is crucial for maintaining uptime in fast-paced manufacturing environments. However, it is essential to choose a provider with a proven track record in the manufacturing sector to avoid misalignment or delays.
In-house IT support
In-house IT support, on the other hand, offers complete control over your IT operations, making it ideal for organizations with complex systems that require frequent adjustments. This approach is particularly suited to manufacturers planning significant investments in smart manufacturing or IoT technologies, where an intimate understanding of your operations and immediate troubleshooting capabilities are critical.
With an in-house team, your IT specialists become familiar with your machinery, software, and unique processes. This can enhance response times and ensure that IT operations are tightly aligned with business strategies. However, building and maintaining an internal IT team requires significant investment in recruitment, training, and infrastructure, which may not be practical for smaller organizations.
Choosing the right tool for manufacturing IT support
Regardless of whether you opt for outsourcing or an in-house team, having the right tools is essential to manage your IT environment effectively. The right tools can streamline IT operations, improve efficiency, and provide visibility across your infrastructure.
InvGate Asset Management is a powerful solution designed to support manufacturing businesses. It offers advanced features for tracking hardware and software assets, automating reporting to ensure compliance, and managing IT infrastructure seamlessly. With its intuitive interface and extensive capabilities, InvGate Asset Management can adapt to both outsourced and in-house IT support strategies, making it a valuable asset for any manufacturing operation.
Similarly, InvGate Service Management complements this by providing a centralized platform to manage and resolve IT incidents and requests efficiently. Its customizable workflows and built-in reporting tools help streamline IT support processes, ensuring faster resolution times and better alignment with manufacturing operations. Features like automated ticketing, self-service portals, and real-time tracking are especially useful in maintaining the uptime and reliability that manufacturing demands.
By leveraging tools like InvGate Service Management and InvGate Asset Management, manufacturing organizations can create a robust IT support system tailored to their specific needs. These tools enable businesses to enhance efficiency, ensure compliance, and maintain the technological foundation required to remain competitive in the evolving manufacturing landscape.
To sum up
IT support is no longer optional for the manufacturing industry—it’s a necessity. Whether you outsource for flexibility and expertise or build an in-house team for control and alignment, the key is choosing the right approach for your business needs.
Regardless of your choice, tools like InvGate Asset Management can streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and provide the technological foundation you need to thrive. With the right IT support system in place, your manufacturing business is primed for efficiency, innovation, and growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the role of IT in manufacturing?
IT plays a critical role in streamlining processes, improving efficiency, and enabling innovation in manufacturing. It supports everything from managing production systems and supply chains to ensuring data security and integrating advanced technologies like IoT and automation.
2. How does IT help in manufacturing?
IT helps manufacturers by automating processes, optimizing production workflows, and reducing downtime. It also improves decision-making through data analysis, enhances communication across departments, and safeguards sensitive information with robust cybersecurity measures.
3. What is included in IT support?
IT support in manufacturing typically includes hardware and software maintenance, network connectivity, cybersecurity, system troubleshooting, and support for specialized tools like ERP systems or IoT devices. It ensures the smooth functioning of technology critical to production.
4. What technology is used in manufacturing?
Manufacturing relies on technologies such as IoT, AI, robotics, ERP systems, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), CAD software, and data analytics platforms. These tools enable smart manufacturing, real-time monitoring, and seamless integration of operations.
