Digitization of Work Instructions to Increase Operational Efficiency

The digitization of work instructions has become a key element in optimizing operational efficiency and productivity. By having all the information in real-time, both the Operator and the Production Manager can take preventive and/or corrective actions based on new information, allowing them to anticipate future events.

Additionally, the Operator will not need to move around to manage various production situations, being responsible for managing their Production Center and improving its Efficiency.

Thus, Operators are no longer mere executors of repetitive tasks but rather Managers of Machinery and Software, whose performance directly impacts the company’s Bottom Line. We will be pleased to help you.

Digital Work Instructions: Definition and Advantages

Digital work instructions are documents detailing the procedures and steps necessary to perform a specific task, presented in electronic format.

These can include text, images, videos, interactive graphics, and other multimedia resources to facilitate the understanding and execution of tasks.

In the context of Industry 4.0, these instructions can even be integrated with digital systems like the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and augmented reality (AR) to enhance accuracy and efficiency in the workplace.

Advantages of Digitizing Work Instructions

1. Easy Access to Documentation and Real-Time Updates Digital instructions can be accessed at any time and from anywhere through mobile devices, tablets, computers, and plant terminals. This eliminates the need to search for physical documents, saving time and reducing production delays. Additionally, this type of documentation can be instantly updated and simultaneously distributed to all employees. This ensures that everyone has access to the correct information, essential for maintaining quality and safety in processes.
2. Standardization and Improvement of Process Quality and Safety Digital instructions help workers better understand procedures, reducing errors and improving task execution accuracy by incorporating multimedia files like images, videos, etc.By clearly describing steps, procedures, and requirements, digital instructions help ensure that work is performed consistently, regardless of who carries it out. This standardization can minimize errors, reduce process variability, and improve overall quality.Work instructions also play an important role in enhancing workplace safety. They include step-by-step procedures for handling hazardous materials, operating machinery, performing high-risk tasks, etc. Following these instructions helps minimize accidents, injuries, and potential legal liabilities.
3. Retention of Tribal Knowledge The manufacturing industry faces new labor challenges, as the retirement of baby boomers leads to a growing skills gap.In this scenario, digital documentation and work instructions can be key to retaining tribal knowledge and preventing the loss of essential knowledge needed to ensure versatility and operational continuity in the factory.
4. Cost Reduction Digital work instructions contribute to cost savings in various ways. On one hand, they eliminate the need to print manuals and spend money on paper and other supplies.On the other hand, the availability of digital work instructions typically leads to improved procedures and equipment management, allowing for cost savings in repairs, unplanned downtime, defects, and non-conformities in production, etc.

How Do You Digitize Your Work Instructions?

An Manufacturing Execution System solution plays a crucial role in the digitization of work instructions. Here are just a few examples:

• Centralization of Instructions on a Single Platform An Manufacturing Execution System centralizes all work instructions on a single platform so all employees have access to the most updated version, eliminating the confusion that can arise from multiple paper versions.
• Real-Time Monitoring of Instruction Compliance With an Manufacturing Execution System, companies can monitor compliance with work instructions in real-time and get immediate feedback from workers. This facilitates the quick identification and resolution of problems, as well as the continuous improvement of processes.
• Improvement of Operator Training Processes The Manufacturing Execution System supports the inclusion of multimedia content like tutorial videos, which can enhance training and understanding of procedures by workers. This is especially useful for complex tasks and during the onboarding of new employees.

The digitization of work instructions offers a wide range of benefits, from improving efficiency and accuracy to reducing costs and supporting environmental sustainability. An Manufacturing Execution System significantly facilitates this process by centralizing information, automating the distribution of instructions, and providing real-time monitoring of compliance.