Small Manufacturing Companies Are Missing This Digital Secret

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Every Saturday, we share insights with 1,100+ supply chain leaders on modernizing business operations for the digital age. This newsletter will be Free for the reader forever. Enjoy!

To learn more about how Harris Web Works can help you to future proof your manufacturing wholesale or distribution business, click here.

Most manufacturers know they need to digitally transform.

But they're missing a critical first step — having the RIGHT strategy.

Here's the proven 4-part framework we've used to help hundreds of manufacturers modernize:

1️⃣ Start with awareness, not alarm

Don't panic about digital transformation. Begin by understanding your current state and learning about available technologies that could help. Take time to plan strategically.

Let's break this down with a real example:

CCAT recently worked with a small manufacturer (35 employees) who was worried they were falling behind. Instead of rushing into expensive software purchases, CCAT helped them:

• Document their current workflows and systems

• Identify which processes needed the most improvement

• Research relevant technology solutions

• Create a 12-month implementation roadmap

This measured approach helped them avoid costly mistakes and build confidence in their transformation journey.

2️⃣ Focus on quick wins first

Look for easy opportunities to optimize existing software and processes. Small improvements in workflows can drive immediate cost savings without major investment.

Here's what this looks like in practice:

A client discovered they were only using 30% of their ERP system's capabilities. By simply:

• Training staff on existing features

• Automating manual data entry

• Setting up basic performance dashboards

They increased productivity by 25% without buying any new software.

3️⃣ Build the right partnerships

Most small manufacturers (90% have under 50 employees) can't staff full IT departments. Find trusted partners and consultants to guide your journey and connect you to resources.

Key partnerships to consider:

• Technology consultants who understand manufacturing

• Industry associations that offer training and resources

• Local manufacturing extension partnerships (MEPs)

• Software vendors with manufacturing expertise

• Other manufacturers for peer learning

4️⃣ Take advantage of available help

Many states offer grants and programs to assist manufacturers with digital projects. Don't try to do it alone - tap into these resources to accelerate transformation.

Available resources often include:

• State-level manufacturing grants (often $50K-$200K)

• Federal workforce development funds

• Industry-specific training programs

• Tax incentives for technology investments

• Free or subsidized consulting services

Digital transformation is a journey, not a destination.

You don't need to revolutionize everything overnight.

Start small, be strategic, and leverage the right partners.

That's how you build a digital-first manufacturing operation that will thrive for decades to come.

Whenever you're ready, here's how we can help you:

Harris Web Works is a digital transformation agency that helps supply chain partners (manufacturers, wholesalers & distributors) meet new generational buyer demands & expectations by installing streamlined e-commerce systems.

To learn more about how we can help you future-proof your business, click here.