Manufacturing is critical to the overall development and growth of economies around the world. According to the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), every dollar spent on manufacturing adds $1.37 to the US economy alone. That multiplier is the highest of any sector in the US market, demonstrating manufacturing’s strength. This shows that this industry is a good indicator of a thriving economy.
On top of the effects of the manufacturing industry on economies, it also contributes to the environment. In many nations, the manufacturing processes promote clean, renewable energy. Many businesses have begun to investigate alternative energy sources such as wind turbines and solar panels. Manufacturing will most likely follow nations’ pressure to transition to clean energy sources.
Now that the importance and impact of manufacturing are established, what are other interesting things about it you should know about? Read on for some of them.
Manufacturers Provide a Huge Opportunity to the Workforce
Job opportunities in manufacturing are expected to increase by 3.5 million over the next decade! As manufacturing persists to push the limits, providing better products with tighter production safety margins than ever before, these well-paying, highly skilled production positions will be essential to fill.
The state of manufacturing workers differs for countries and companies. You might have encountered different news about exploitation, unfair labor treatment, lack of compensation, and more. However, in certain nations, they put high importance on the laborers in the industry. In fact, some countries are offering high-paying positions in the field of manufacturing. Either way, many people are able to have jobs because of the opportunities opened up by the industry.
Safety Standards in Manufacturing are Continuously Improving
Occupational injuries reported at manufacturing plants lowered by two-thirds over a 15-year period, a faster rate of improvement than the overall private sector. Manufacturers understand that safety programs reduce costs, increase productivity, and boost efficiency and morale, all of which contribute to the bottom line.
Employees indirectly contribute to safer work environments by participating in company-funded wellness programs. This makes sure that the people working in and around manufacturing sites are safe and secured. This also adds to improved quality of work and high productivity levels in the industry.
Technology Plays a Vital Role in Improving Manufacturing Processes
Manufacturers’ capabilities have increased dramatically as technology has advanced. Today, 3D printing, for example, benefits a variety of businesses, particularly those in the healthcare and science industries. One will be astounded to learn that body parts are now being 3D printed for surgeries.
Engineers have designed and manufactured some of our world’s greatest feats. It’s incredible to see vastly complex and efficient products being engineered to accomplish what was previously thought to be impossible.
Manufacturing and Customer Service are Closely Related
Manufacturing isn’t the only aspect of your business that benefits from remaining on American soil. Customer service is an essential component of any company’s success, and it is frequently influenced significantly by the geographic location of your customer service representatives. Customers frequently experience a disconnect between themselves and the people handling their service issues when customer service representatives and centers are located abroad.
Furthermore, there may be language barriers that cause miscommunication between representatives and customers, resulting in problems and frustrations on both sides.
Key Takeaway
Manufacturing is the process of converting raw materials into new products through mechanical, physical, or chemical means. Without manufacturing, we would not have the tools and technologies required to be productive in other sectors of our economy, nor would we have the various goods that consumers use every day.
The process of manufacturing is complex in itself, but the many areas that correlate and engage with it make it more fruitful for economies and individuals alike.