The ethical manufacturer: how to balance corporate success with social good

In an increasingly conscientious world, manufacturers are under significant pressure to prioritise corporate social responsibility (CSR) in their operations. The imperative has escalated as governments and customers continue to squeeze manufacturers on either side to action and incorporate CSR and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. According to the United Nations Global Impact (Business & Human Rights […]

Top 5 tech solutions driving social sustainability in supply chains

Enhancing social sustainability in supply chains is a complex challenge for manufacturers. Throughout every tier of an ethical supply chain, they must commit to upholding social welfare considerations, ensuring sustainable labour practices, community engagement, and human rights preservation. While challenging, this approach is critical to upholding ethical standards, improving operational efficiency, minimising risks, and enticing […]

Why green manufacturing can’t succeed without social engagement 

The global shift towards green manufacturing in line with net-zero commitments is accelerating, driven by ESG mandates. The European Union’s Net-Zero Industry Act (NZIA), for instance, requires social engagement with workers and stakeholders to produce green energy equipment locally. It is in response to the US$369 billion of green subsidies extended in the United States […]

Reputational Risks: Why Ethical Manufacturing is Vital to ESG progress

Establishing a robust and impactful Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework that is aligned with business and sustainable goals is no easy feat. It is nuanced and requires diligence by all manufacturers. As an industry, manufacturers are tasked with integrating ESG principles into the fabric of their operations and digital supply chain with urgency due […]

Safeguarding data in the age of smart manufacturing

The era of smart manufacturing and building intelligent factories is transforming manufacturing as we know it. Industry 4.0 has brought on the swift adoption of powerful tools aided by artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and the Internet of Things (IoT), which has resulted in greater optimisation, and automation but also a large amount of […]

What role does green financing play in manufacturing to drive environmental sustainability?

The spotlight on environmental sustainability has never been brighter than in recent years. As more and more reports emerge about how dangerously close the world is in passing climate tipping points, more needs to be done by businesses and industries to address climate change and the growing environmental issues we face. Unsurprisingly, environmental sustainability has […]

How smart manufacturing can drive sustainability and equity

It’s not an exaggeration to say that the world has developed at an incredible pace in the last few centuries. Collectively, we have made several transformational leaps and bounds throughout history, and the rate of change is only getting faster over time. Part of this transformation includes the evolution of the manufacturing industry, and its […]

Optimising capital allocation for ESG: key strategies for manufacturers

The focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors today cannot be overstated due to pressing climate issues. Consumers have taken notice and added increasing pressure on companies to take a stand and align ESG with business and operational goals. Many have heeded the call, with ESG-focused institutional investment expected to jump by 84% to […]

Understanding the impact of long-distance freight on mining supply chain sustainability

Think about the last time you shopped online – where did your item get shipped from? Where was it made? How about the raw materials needed to produce these goods? There’s a high likelihood that your item had to pass through several stages in the supply chain and get transported across different locations before it […]

What’s in store for 2024: 5 top manufacturing trends to watch

In 2023, manufacturers faced significant challenges ranging from geopolitical instabilities, skills shortages, and supply chain disruptions, further adding to the overall turbulence in the sector. Yet, despite these hurdles, manufacturers have remained committed to digital and sustainable progress—as is our commitment to help the industry reach these important goals. Over the last 12 months, we […]

From aspiration to action: a framework for manufacturers to gauge sustainable practices

Introducing COSIRI, a pioneering sustainability maturity index designed for manufacturing industries. COSIRI empowers industries to better leverage bottom-up insights to scale their sustainable transformation in line with existing corporate strategies and emissions reduction targets. In a world where sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity, COSIRI can serve as a valuable compass, guiding […]

Why digital twins are the building blocks of the manufacturing metaverse

Industry 4.0 has driven significant change across the manufacturing industry in recent years. The focus on digital transformation and introducing new and modern digital capabilities have allowed manufacturers to achieve greater productivity, efficiency, and sustainability, with smart technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and big data powering these new tools. One critical tool that has emerged […]

Developing cyber resilience in an increasingly interconnected manufacturing industry

Automation, smart robots, and big data have become ubiquitous in manufacturing today. From large, conventional factories to smaller, agile microfactories, many modern production processes depend on Industry 4.0 technologies driven by big data, the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), and more. This increased interconnectivity through IIoT has provided manufacturers with several benefits, from increased efficiency […]

Strategies for thriving in the digital era: Understanding intrinsic methodologies including Lean and Six Sigma; SIRI in Türkiye

The trajectory towards operational efficiency is increasingly moving towards digitalisation. Compelling forecasts have suggested that lean principles and digital transformation will converge and intertwine as organisations progress on their transformation journeys. During the ‘Lean Six Sigma Day’ conference hosted by SOCAR Turkiye in August, INCIT served as part of the panel speakers, diving into various […]

How AI and hyperautomation drive sustainable manufacturing

Automation has changed businesses forever. By streamlining processes and creating new operational efficiencies, manufacturers have embraced automation as a core part of their operations, like most sectors. Although it is undeniable that automation has sparked unprecedented change, hyperautomation takes transformation to an entirely new level. The dramatic rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning […]

SIRI in Azerbaijan: INCIT sets up SIRI training and examination centre with IMTI

The Smart Industry Readiness Index (SIRI) is now in Azerbaijan! In July this year, we penned a shared commitment together with Innovation Management and TRIZ Institute (IMTI) to establish a SIRI Training and Examination Centre in the country. Azerbaijan manufacturers, industry practitioners, leaders, consultants and more now have easier access to becoming Certified SIRI Transformation […]

3 ways manufacturers can achieve sustainable warehousing

The ever-rising mercury and consistent heatwaves over the years have laid bare the dire effects of global warming and climate change, highlighting the importance of going green for a more sustainable future. Manufacturers must be responsible and focus their green initiatives on sustainable measures where possible. An easily achievable win that manufacturers can focus on […]

INCIT partners Swiss Smart Factory to establish the ‘Smart Sustainable Manufacturing Transformation Centre’

The International Centre for Industrial Transformation (INCIT) has collaborated with Swiss Smart Factory to establish a customised manufacturing facility, named the ‘Smart Sustainable Manufacturing Transformation Centre (SSMTC)’. This innovative collaboration marks a significant step forward in advancing the principles of Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing. What is the significance of this collaboration? 1. Comprehensive Expertise […]

6 steps to overseeing the end-to-end digital transformation of next-gen manufacturing plants

Manufacturing facilities worldwide are becoming much more capable, enabling organisations to improve operational efficiency, engage with stakeholders in real time, and strengthen collaboration among departments. As such, more organisational leaders are seeking end-to-end digital approaches for their own manufacturing plants and facilities in a bid to push the boundaries of innovation. However, cut-throat competition, more […]

Cutting-edge data analytics: why newer technologies alone cannot power the factory of the future

Data has been captured in various forms and has been an essential part of processes for centuries – from simple tallying markers and notes to complex spreadsheets and cloud storage. Today, the amount and volume of complex data, or big data, that is created and stored is staggering, with an estimated 2.5 billion gigabytes generated […]

INCIT launches LinkedIn newsletter ‘Manufacturing Insider’

The manufacturing industry’s digital transformation has progressed tremendously in recent years and is not showing signs of slowing down. To help our partners and network keep up with the latest trends and observations amid the constantly evolving industry landscape, we have launched our LinkedIn newsletter, ‘Manufacturing Insider’. With this new monthly LinkedIn newsletter, we aim […]

SIRI in China: TÜV SÜD conducts the first CSA training in China

INCIT is proud to share that its acceleration partner TÜV SÜD has recently concluded the first Certified SIRI Assessor (CSA) training in Suzhou, China. The training was conducted after the official opening of its CSA Training and Examination Centre at the Suzhou Industrial Park Bosch Intelligent Manufacturing Enabling Centre on 13 June 2023. The CSA […]

What is fair trade manufacturing and why is it important for global sustainability?

The fair trade manufacturing movement champions rigorous standards that promote sustainable livelihoods. It advocates for safe working conditions, protection of the environment, and stronger, more transparent supply chains. This movement is especially important for workers in developing nations who may have been victims of exploitative practices such as sweatshop labour. Other incidents, such as the […]

INCIT® is now a registered trademark – INCIT®’s portfolio growing rapidly

Great news! We have successfully registered “INCIT” as the trademark of the International Centre for Industrial Transformation. This helps us consolidate and establish our brand so we can continue to grow our presence and reach, in both the region and globally. Aside from driving Industry 4.0 transformation through the Smart Industry Readiness Index (SIRI), we […]

How to establish a carbon-neutral workplace

When it comes to reducing their carbon footprint, most manufacturers tend to prioritise improving the energy efficiency of their production processes and supply chains. No less important to tackle, however, are carbon emissions related to the everyday workplace. Small changes to day-to-day office operations can greatly contribute to reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, an improvement […]

How eco-packaging is making its mark in manufacturing

A relatively broad term, “eco-packaging” refers to packaging that is physically designed to optimise materials and energy across its end-to-end life cycle, from raw materials to production to disposal. According to the Sustainable Packaging Coalition, eco-packaging: Is beneficial, safe and healthy for use throughout its life cycle Meets market criteria for both performance and cost […]

The need to increase water efficiency in manufacturing – and how

Water has really played a pivotal role in the growth and development of society throughout the course of history, with considerable amounts consumed in various industries and through municipal use. The manufacturing industry is not excluded – in the US alone, over 18.2 billion gallons (68 billion litres) are used per day for industrial purposes. Water […]

New partner in Malaysia: Selangor Human Resource Development Centre 

From 1 April 2023, the International Centre for Industrial Transformation (INCIT) will form a collaborative partnership with the Selangor Human Resource Development Centre (SHRDC) to further our commitment to transforming manufacturing by addressing sustainability and talent development.  At INCIT, we aim to catalyse industrial transformation to help the global manufacturing sector advance, develop and grow. […]

INCIT appoints SIT’s Associate Professor Yee Fook Cheong as first Academia Fellow in its global network

Wednesday, 22 March 2023, Singapore. The International Centre for Industrial Transformation (INCIT) has recently named Associate Professor Yee Fook Cheong of the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) an Academia Fellow of INCIT. Assoc Prof Yee is the first individual to join INCIT’s network of partners and collaborators in this capacity. A highly qualified and experienced […]

Global Sustainability Prioritisation Index to accelerate the journey to net zero for manufacturers

Monday, 27 February 2023, Singapore. At the recent World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2023 in Davos, the International Centre for Industrial Transformation (INCIT) launched its Consumer Sustainability Industry Readiness Index, or COSIRI. The first of its kind, COSIRI is an independent, manufacturer-centric framework that is set to benchmark the sustainability maturity of global industry players […]

Impact of energy efficiency and innovation in electronics manufacturing

From industrial electronics to personal mobile devices, the electronics industry has had a significant impact on how society functions, and this continues even today. However, the growth of the electronics industry has led to severe environmental issues, with 4% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions attributed to it. Given global electricity demand is expected to rise […]

INCIT announces senior appointment in EMEA

INCIT has announced a new senior appointment as the global think tank continues to grow its operations internationally. Aykut Yeni has been appointed Business Development Director, to service the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa) region and develop INCIT’s Partner and Data Analytics Membership.  INCIT is rapidly growing its presence within this region and with this […]

World leaders gathered at World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2023

From 16 January to 20 January 2023, world leaders congregated at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2023 in Davos, Switzerland to discuss topics around the theme, “Cooperation in a Fragmented World”.  The event marked the 53rd iteration of the WEF’s yearly meeting, reaffirming the value and imperative of dialogue and public-private cooperation. Leaders […]

IT/OT convergence: challenges and opportunities in 2023

As manufacturers adopt Industry 4.0 and take steps to further digitalise, one area of focus that has emerged is the convergence of information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT), or IT/OT convergence.  Traditionally, IT and OT systems worked in silos as they governed different domains. OT is heavily involved in the physical world, such as […]

2022: Year in review

In the past year, world-changing global events, geopolitical instabilities and economic uncertainty have been the only constants in an ever-changing world. As industries and businesses continue to adapt to a world in flux, manufacturing has managed to come out even stronger than before, and the International Centre for Industrial Transformation (INCIT) has strived to serve […]

Smart Sustainable Manufacturing – bringing together cleantech and advanced manufacturing

The rise of automation, machine learning and advanced technology in recent years has accelerated the digital transformation of the manufacturing industry, leading to smarter and more efficient manufacturing processes. Through this integration of recent technological advancements into various processes and systems, manufacturing businesses have managed to boost productivity and efficiency – but more importantly, become […]

Is your workforce ready for increased optimisation in F&B manufacturing?

As Industry 4.0 accelerates in the global manufacturing sector, an often-overlooked field is food and beverage (F&B) manufacturing. Although F&B manufacturing is not perceived to be as important as semiconductors, nor as flashy as electric vehicles, it undoubtedly plays a critical role in feeding the masses – and Industry 4.0 could help create a more […]