Made Smarter is a partnership between Government and business to boost the application of digital technologies in manufacturing.
According to Made Smarter, by 2030 the UK will be the global leader in the creation, adoption and export of advanced digital technologies, shaping how the modern world does business.
These new technologies will enable faster, more responsive and more efficient processes to deliver improved productivity and higher quality products at a reduced cost.
To help companies and workforces drive the take up of new technologies in a way that isn’t disruptive but produces good jobs, improved productivity and a clean footprint, Made Smarter has designed six guiding principles which are outlined below.
made Smarter is asking manufacturing companies to commit the principles to themselves, as well as extending the relationship to their supply chains.
Companies will assess any potential impacts on health, safety and sustainability arising from the use of digital technology and conduct appropriate training to mitigate any associated risks and to make the most of opportunities for improvement.
Companies will ensure that people have access to the training they need. Government and employees (or their union representatives) will be part of the partnership on retraining. Employees and unions, where they are present, will be engaged in developing and agreeing retraining plans.
Companies should consider developing codes of conduct on data use, including within supply chains, drawn up in consultation with the workforce and their representatives. Companies need to demonstrate that employee data is secure and that they are in compliance with regulations.
Individuals should see their roles enhanced as a consequence of digital technology. This will require open and creative ways to generate ideas for new products and/or areas for investment.
"To make a success of this 4th Industrial revolution, it needs to be truly inclusive," said Juergen Maier, chair of the Made Smarter Commission and Siemens UK CEO, said. "That means strong partnerships when it comes to digitalisation, technology deployment and upskilling and the Made Smarter work is totally committed to that.
He added: “We’ve long said we need a workforce ready for technology disruption and 1 million existing workers need new digital skills. This partnership between government, industry and the TUC is the first step in developing a detailed roadmap to deliver this”
Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom added: “Manufacturing plays a vital role in the UK economy and our manufacturers are leading the way in driving innovation, job creation and growth.
“Through the Made Smarter Commission the Government is working with industry to help manufacturers embrace digital technology and use it to further boost our competitiveness.
“These new Principles will help companies reap the benefits of this technology, leading to better quality, higher skilled and safer jobs.”
Made Smarter www.madesmarter.uk/principles-for-digitalisation