One of the keys to elevating competitiveness in the Thai industrial sector is productivity improvement. To improve productivity, first we need to improve the skills and efficiency of personnel in the industrial sector, which is also an essential step towards the Industry 4.0 transformation.
According to Mr. Varin Rodphothong, Vice President of Manufacturing Automation and Robotic Center, Thai-German Institute (TGI), the definition of “productivity” is the ratio of output per unit of input. Hence, “productivity improvement” means producing higher output per constant measure of input. As for the 10 target industries, which were designated by the Ministry of Industry as the new engines of growth, productivity improvement is the key solution for the country to raise per capita income and escape the middle-income trap.
In order to compete in the global marketplace, manufacturers need to consider three basic factors, namely: cost reduction, product quality, and flexibility to respond to consumer demand. Thus, the manufacturing industry must turn to QCD Flexible Production by using advanced technology and innovation.
TGI believes that the best methods for improving productivity is to develop worker skills and integrate automation and robotics into the manufacturing process. Today, Thai manufacturers are much more aware of the value of automation systems and robotics. Many have sent their employees to train at TGI, so they would be able to access newer and more advanced technology.
Mr. Varin added that not only the manufactures, but even the suppliers for robotics and automation systems, both inside and outside of the country, have become much more enthusiastic. Some who seek to promote their products and services have contacted the TGI in order to connect with the technology owners.
“Automation systems and robotics are vital for the manufacturing process of the target industries. Human resource development is also essential. However, in order to move towards Industry 4.0, the most important thing is still the top executives’ vision. Each business must find the right solution to create products that accurately answer the diverse demands of customers.”
The People's Republic of China is a great example of utilising robotics and automation to enhance their competitive advantage. Approximately 40% of consumer products worldwide are made in China. This demonstrates this Asian nation’s ability to analyse and answer the varied demands of the customers by dividing the market into small batches. It also illustrates the flexibility of the manufacturers.
For the upcoming era, it is no longer necessary to be able to manufacture a large amount of products, but better to deliver products that truly solve customers’ needs. The technology for this solution is called “Flexible Automation.” This is why the industry sector not only needs to integrate advanced technology and innovation for productivity improvement, but also develop human resources as well.
