By Rudie Opperman, Manager , Engineering & Training, Middle East and Africa

Like many other industries, manufacturing is undergoing a digital transformation that promises to change how it operates, create new business models, and deliver significant economic benefits. Edge computing can potentially transform the manufacturing sector by integrating many aspects of the manufacturing process, including design, supply chain, and operations. Aligning South African manufacturing more closely with this global shift to edge technologies could take manufacturing in our country to a new level.

Edge computing is a distributed computing model that brings computing resources closer to where data is generated and processed, such as at the network's edge, rather than in a centralised data centre. This technology enables devices and systems to operate faster and more efficiently by reducing the latency and bandwidth demands associated with transmitting data to a central location for processing. As a result, edge computing can help manufacturing companies in South Africa overcome some of the challenges they face in today's increasingly connected and complex world.

The advantages of edge computing for manufacturers in South Africa

More than any other industry, manufacturers rely on real-time analytics.[1] With access to quick insights, it becomes possible for manufacturers to identify problems, such as predicting when equipment needs servicing before it fails. Known as predictive maintenance, it helps eliminate downtime and reduce costs associated with unplanned repairs. After all, if a machine malfunctions, the production line may need to be stopped to avoid damage or safety risks.

With edge computing, decisions can be made in real time, without waiting for data to be sent to a central location for analysis. This can help manufacturers improve their operational efficiency and reduce downtime, which can significantly impact their bottom line.

Another benefit of edge computing is that it allows IoT devices to store, process, and analyse data locally. Examples here include machinery and industrial equipment that can analyse operational conditions on factory floors. IoT devices generate vast amounts of data, which can be challenging to manage and process in a central location. Edge computing can help manufacturers overcome this challenge by allowing them to process data closer to where it is generated, reducing the amount of data that needs to be transmitted over the network. This can help enable more advanced IoT use cases, such as predictive maintenance and smart supply chains.

Security, both in terms of securing physical premises and cybersecurity, stands to gain a lot from edge computing. This technology can help improve physical security in manufacturing by enabling faster response times, improving access control systems, and providing better threat detection capabilities. And with the increasing use of IoT devices, manufacturing environments are becoming more complex and interconnected. This can create new security risks, as hackers may attempt to exploit vulnerabilities in these devices to gain access to critical systems. Edge computing can mitigate these risks by enabling security measures at the edge of the network, where devices are located. This can help manufacturers in South Africa implement a more comprehensive cybersecurity strategy that protects both their physical and digital assets.

In addition to these advantages, edge computing can help South African manufacturers create new business models and revenue streams. For example, by implementing edge computing, manufacturers can collect and analyse data from their customers' devices and systems, allowing them to offer new services and products based on this data. This can help manufacturers differentiate themselves from competitors and create new revenue sources.

Embracing a new age of manufacturing in South Africa

However, there are challenges associated with implementing edge computing in manufacturing environments. One of these is the need for specialised skills and expertise to design, implement, and maintain edge computing solutions. This can be particularly challenging for small and medium-sized manufacturers in South Africa, who may need more resources to invest in these skills. Another challenge is the need to integrate edge computing solutions with existing systems and processes, which can be complex and time-consuming.

But these challenges shouldn’t stand in the way of manufacturers integrating new or different technologies within, for example, the factory. In fact, manufacturers should prioritise finding new ways to innovate and adapt to these challenges. Doing so will lead to many opportunities for growth and success in the years to come.

With the right strategy and technology partner, manufacturers can continue to drive economic growth while creating new opportunities. The idea is simple: choose technology that aligns with your manufacturing practices to better satisfy your customers. And a trusted partner will help you do just that.