Industry 4.0 presents a vast opportunity for specialty chemicals manufacturers using the right technologies and strategic approach

NAPERVILLE, Ill., May 16, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- As a new industry whitepaper from Sikich points out, recent developments in cloud and enterprise business management technology have made it easier for process manufacturers to adopt Industry 4.0, often referred to as the fourth industrial revolution. Going beyond today's use of computerized technologies and automation, Industry 4.0 erases remaining borders between physical and digital systems, enabling new approaches for companies to meet customer needs and launch products and services. Given the complexities of their operations and supply chains as well as the innovative potential in launching new services and products, specialty chemicals manufacturers can find a particularly rich opportunity in Industry 4.0.

Debbie Altham, Industry Director, Process Industries at Sikich, says, "Specialty chemicals manufacturers are in many ways ahead of the broader market when it comes to innovative, creative use of technology. That positions them well to take advantage of Industry 4.0 by using proven, easily deployed technologies like modern ERP in the cloud, extended by advanced analytics and enterprise mobility. Sikich offers the resources, expertise, practical guidance, and solutions to ease their passage."

Compound annual growth in specialty chemicals manufacturing, while expected to be over 4 percent by 2024, is impacted by a slowdown in the chemical industry overall as well as in the automotive, construction, and pharmaceutical sectors served by specialty chemicals manufacturers. This increases the urgency for specialty chemicals companies to find new ways to compete and ensure the long-term health of their businesses. Sikich proposes a low-risk, results-oriented roadmap for Industry 4.0 adoption, starting with a proof-of-concept in a distinct business area such as asset or quality management. Companies can go on to create digitally driven products and services, re-create their supply chains for greater control and velocity, or embark on other strategic initiatives.

Altham comments, "Specialty chemicals manufacturers face turmoil in a global industry context at the same time as generational change that will see thousands of older and highly experienced employees leave their positions in coming years. Transformative use of technology within an Industry 4.0 initiative can greatly help to recruit, retain, and empower the workforce that will take companies into the future."

Sikich has for many years assisted chemical and other manufacturers in selecting and deploying software systems that provide a solid foundation for productive operations and make it possible to keep business transformation under Industry 4.0 efficient and focused on customers. Unusual in its industry, Sikich's broad network enables its team members to make recommendations from a wider range of leading ERP and cloud technology providers than many other consultant firms can.

The new Sikich whitepaper, "Getting past Industry 4.0 hype to take advantage of transformative opportunities for creating value," is available as a free download at www.sikichtech.com/chemindustry

About Sikich. Sikich is a leading professional-services firm that is among the top 1 percent of all enterprise resource planning solution partners in the world and ranks as one of the United States' Top 30 CPA Firms. Sikich is also ranked as number 9 in the country's top 100 technology providers. To every project, Sikich ERP and CRM experts contribute more than 30 years of team experience and an outstanding track record with a success rate of 97 percent. Sikich partners with the industry leaders, including Microsoft, NetSuite, and SonicWALL. Sikich is a Microsoft Gold and Microsoft Dynamics Inner Circle Partner focused on delivering technology solutions for tangible business improvement and organizational excellence. To learn more about Sikich, go to www.sikichtech.com/ or contact [email protected].

SOURCE Sikich

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