Digitalising People Management in Manufacturing
Manufacturing represents a significant pillar of the Australian economy. According to Australian Government jobs data, Australia’s manufacturing sector accounts for 6.5% of Australian employment. The manufacturing sector is on a path of progressive transformation. By embracing advanced technologies, manufacturers are making significant investments in enhancing operational efficiency, safety, sustainability, and decision-making capabilities. The shift of manufacturing towards digitalisation holds immense potential for growth and improvement in the sector. This blog delves into how digitalisation holds the key for improved HR processes and people management in manufacturing.
Lagging Back-Office Technologies
Despite the widespread adoption of advanced technologies for production and operational purposes, many sizable steel fabrication Australia companies are yet to fully digitalise their Human Resources (HR) processes. Traditional methods like paper-based timesheets and spreadsheet-driven shift scheduling are still prevalent, contrasting sharply with the industry’s otherwise forward-looking technological stance. This inefficiency in HR processes is a clear indication of the need for change. The reluctance to digitalise HR functions in the manufacturing sector is a missed opportunity. Many manufacturers are yet to realise the potential benefits of identifying skills gaps and developing the workforce, reducing costs, and fostering a more sustainable business model. Transitioning to a digital-first approach in people management is not just an investment in technology, but a fundamental shift in organisational culture that values digital transformation in all facets, including administrative and HR operations.
Digital Revolution in People Management
Digital workforce management solutions have transformed how manufacturers handle these tasks and enhanced strategies to reduce manufacturing cycle times. Time and attendance software automates tracking employee hours, reducing errors and freeing up valuable administrative time. Auto rostering systems take this a step further by optimising shift schedules, ensuring that the right people are in the right place at the right time, thereby enhancing operational efficiency.
Enhancing Safety and Efficiency
One of the most significant benefits of digitalising people management is improving workplace safety. Auto rostering systems can incorporate safety protocols into the scheduling process, ensuring that employees are not overworked and there are enough staff members with the necessary skills on each shift to handle emergencies. This proactive approach to safety can help prevent accidents and improve overall employee well-being. Efficiency is another area where digital solutions shine. By automating routine tasks, manufacturers can reduce the time spent on administrative work. This allows managers to focus on strategic initiatives like process improvements and quality control. Additionally, with real-time employee attendance and productivity data, managers can make informed decisions that boost operational efficiency. Digital workforce management systems generate a wealth of data that can be analysed to identify trends and areas for improvement. For example, analysing attendance patterns can reveal chronic understaffing during specific shifts, prompting a re-evaluation of scheduling practices.
Employee Empowerment and Engagement
Digital solutions empower employees by giving them greater control over their schedules. Quality people management systems offer self-service options that allow workers to request time off, swap shifts, and view their schedules from their mobile devices. This flexibility can lead to higher job satisfaction and engagement, as employees feel more valued and in control of their work-life balance. For pressure vessel manufacturers, the key to successful digitalisation people management involves fostering a flexible, innovative, and well-trained workforce that can adapt to new technologies. As technology advances, the potential for digital workforce management solutions to transform the manufacturing industry grows. Mobile devices can track employee movements and alert managers to potential safety risks on a real-time basis.
Looking to the Future
The future of manufacturing lies in the ability to adapt and innovate. The ongoing reluctance to fully embrace digital HR processes is more than a missed opportunity; it is an oversight that can affect the competitiveness of Australia’s manufacturing industry. Manufacturers who commit to transforming their people management practices through digitalisation will lead the industry towards a more efficient, safe, and sustainable future. It is a pivotal moment for the sector to redefine its operations and culture, ensuring it remains at the forefront of global manufacturing excellence.
