It Is Possible to Adopt Error-Proofing Without Large IT Investments

It Is Possible to Adopt Error-Proofing Without Large IT Investments

Many manufacturers hesitate to invest in new or modern technologies due to the perception that it’s complex, requires IT overhauls, and is expensive. While this is a common misconception, it’s easy to see why. Traditional MES implementations often demanded extensive resources, making it seem like only large enterprises could afford the tools to ensure an error-free floor.
However, times have changed. Modern error-proofing solutions are designed to be affordable, flexible, and easy to integrate, even for small and mid-sized manufacturers. So, is there an affordable solution to error-proofing available? Absolutely. In this article, we’ll explain why adopting error-proofing doesn’t require a large IT investment and how it can be accessible to manufacturers of all sizes.

Affordable Error-Proofing: A Reality for All Manufacturers

With the evolution of cloud-based and IoT-integrated solutions, manufacturers can now adopt powerful error-proofing systems without significant upfront costs. Here’s how:

• Scalability: Modern error-proofing solutions like PICO are designed to grow with your business. Whether you’re running a small operation or expanding rapidly, you can start with just the essentials such as analog sensors, badge readers, and torque controllers, and add more device integrations as your needs evolve. PICO offers over 200 no-code tools and devices, making it easy to connect your shop floor and build a home for your operational data.
  
  
• Minimal IT Demands: PICO’s straightforward IT infrastructure requires minimal technical support or system changes. An Intel NUC server connects to the secure PICO VPN for updates, backups, and troubleshooting, while PICO Hubs manage tool and device connectivity across the shop floor. This setup enables plug-and-play connections for tools like sensors and torque controllers, so manufacturers can focus on production without the need for complex IT setups.
  
  
• Cost-Effective Technology: The cost of hardware and software has significantly decreased, allowing even small manufacturers to implement solutions like automated quality checks and real-time monitoring at a fraction of the previous cost. PICO is priced to be accessible for small and mid-sized manufacturers, offering a cost-effective solution that improves efficiency compared to more expensive enterprise systems. For instance, in nine months, HJI Supply Chain Solutions delivered nearly 2,000 error-free parts, digitized 151 workflows, and connected 12 workstations, all while keeping costs manageable.
  
  
• Ease of Implementation and Use: PICO is designed to be easy to implement and use, catering to factories of all sizes. This simplicity reduces the barriers to adopting smart manufacturing tools, making it a practical solution for companies that may not have extensive resources or technical expertise. Pollington Machine and Tool benefited from PICO’s digital work instructions to assemble 4,000 units error-free without requiring heavy IT investments.

Error-proofing is a luxury all manufacturers can afford. By adopting modern error-proofing tools, you can prevent costly mistakes before they escalate. This not only improves your bottom line but also enhances customer trust and boosts operational efficiency.

How Does PICO Make Error-Proofing Accessible?

At PICO, we’ve designed our error-proofing solutions with all factory sizes in mind. Our system is scalable, affordable, and easy to implement, ensuring manufacturers of all sizes can benefit from error-proofing without a large IT investment. Here’s how:

1. Ease of Implementation and Use

PICO’s system is designed for quick and easy integration, particularly for small and medium-sized factories. By eliminating the barriers to adopting smart manufacturing tools, it enables companies to get up and running with minimal disruption.

2. Affordability for SMB Manufacturers

PICO is accessible for small and mid-sized manufacturers, offering a cost-effective alternative to more expensive enterprise-level systems. For those just getting started, PICO provides Digital Work Instructions (DWI) for free, allowing manufacturers to try out our tools without a financial commitment. From there, we offer affordable, scalable plans that support efficient, error-free operations at any stage of growth. 

➡️ For more information explore our pricing options here.

3. Comprehensive Real-Time Data Analytics

PICO offers real-time data analytics that cover various aspects of manufacturing, such as cycle times, work efficiency, and throughput. These insights help manufacturers monitor performance in real time across the factory floor, catch issues early, and optimize production.

4. Integration with Over 200 Devices

PICO integrates seamlessly with over 200 devices for automated data collection, allowing manufacturers to easily adapt to modern manufacturing practices without overhauling their infrastructure.

5. Digital Work Instructions

PICO’s digital work instructions make it easy to train and upskill factory workers, addressing the skills gap and labor shortages. Digital work instructions simplify complex tasks and provide step-by-step guidance to ensure accuracy on the production line.

6. Designed by End-Users for End-Users

PICO was developed with the needs of manufacturing engineers in mind, ensuring practical and relevant functionality for real-world manufacturing environments. By focusing on tools that empower operators on the shop floor, PICO helps teams maintain accuracy and efficiency throughout production.

7. Adaptable and Scalable

PICO is fully customizable and scalable, meeting the diverse needs of manufacturers as they grow and evolve. Whether you need basic error-proofing today or plan to expand your operations, PICO adapts to your requirements, ensuring long-term flexibility.

Adopt Error-Proofing Without Breaking the Bank

The fear of high costs and complex IT setups no longer needs to hold manufacturers back from adopting comprehensive error-proofing solutions. With PICO, you can start small, implement the tools that make sense for your current operations, and scale up as needed. Whether you’re aiming to improve quality, reduce defects, or boost efficiency, error-proofing has never been more affordable or accessible.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

To learn more about how PICO can help you implement error-proofing without the need for a large IT investment, check out our Complete Guide to Error-Proofing (Poka-Yoke) in Manufacturing.

Curious to see error-proofing in action? Book a live demo today and experience firsthand how error-proofing can streamline operations, boost output, and eliminate everyday inefficiencies.