Business

Ways Manufacturers Can Make Better Use of Data

Published

5 years ago

July 24, 2020

Big data is a buzzword you hear used by ever more companies across many different industries. For manufacturing companies, using data in smart and modern ways can improve processes and procedures, encourage growth in ways that would have been impossible in the past, reduce costs and raise profits.

Data are the facts or information about every aspect of manufacturing processes. Using IoT devices to record the manufacturing process, companies can avail themselves of all sorts of data. Unfortunately, many manufacturing companies, at best, don’t understand how to gather, analyze, and use all this data that is now available to them or, at worst, choose to entirely ignore it. If your company is not currently using data to drive production and make better decisions, you are missing out on major opportunities to improve your company. Here are 3 ways manufacturers can make better use of data to improve their processes.

Set Clear Goals

Manufacturing is all about setting goals for your machinery and manpower in order to produce the greatest quantity of good quality products as efficiently and quickly as possible. How clear are your goals? Are they passive and driven only by orders or are they based on data that allows your company to work in a way that is scalable and customizable when it needs to be? Some manufacturers struggle with these questions, especially when times get tough. The ones who set the clearest, smartest goals will be the ones that prosper.

Using data and basic analytics allows you to see the whole picture and be proactive about manufacturing goals. Using machine-level data you can learn incredibly important points such as when and how often you are producing different products, how long it takes, and how much money goes into producing each item. You can also get data on tiny seemingly insignificant information that will show you the times and conditions that generate the most profitable outcomes. When you know these data points, you can work to set goals that recreate the most profitable outcomes as much as possible to maximize your manufacturing efficiency.

Data provided by IoT devices in the manufacturing process can also help companies better understand cycle time and how it improves with more data and updated procedures. Cycle time measures the span of time from when an order is placed until it gets into a customer’s hand. With solid data to help you improve cycle time, you can start making clearer goals on customer timelines which will lead to improved customer relations and feedback.

Have Well-Defined Procedures

With clearly established data-driven goals, more data is used to help companies meet and exceed those goals. Manufacturers can do this in several different ways. As more data about their processes is gained, one of the best ways to achieve goals is to speed up production. When you do that, however, more errors can occur. Using big data companies can determine methods for going faster but with fewer errors.

To accomplish this seemingly impossible task, you must collect and analyze all the data at hand. Using error-rate data you can see who and what in the process is linked to the most errors and start creating a mix of products and workers that leads to the smallest number of errors. This will save money on unusable goods and while speeding up the process of hitting goals. It can also help to create employee incentive and training programs that will lead to a faster and less error-filled process.

Another way big data analytics generated during the manufacturing process by IoT devices can help companies adapt their processes to the modern environment, is by increasing their ability for customization. In 2020, manufacturing customization is more desirable for clients than ever before and data is the key to offering more of this. To start, knowing data about all of your manufacturing processes allows you to manufacture goods in the most efficient way possible. When you have a client looking for customization, you will quickly be able to make a data-based decision on whether or not you are able to do what is requested and how it will affect your bottom line.

Track Data Comprehensively

The manufacturing process is not merely about using data drawn from the machines, people, and products you make. Some data from all around you can be mined for better outcomes. In addition to acquiring and processing data from the tangible materials around you, you can also use environmental data to create a better manufacturing process and hit your goals. In some manufacturing industries – ones that make very precise and sensitive products – this data is a “must-have”.

Using a cloud-based monitoring system is one way to maintain widespread data visibility in complex systems. For manufacturers in such fields as the aerospace industry, where parts need to be produced and stored in precise environmental conditions, being able to collect precise environmental data about things like temperature, humidity, and pressure is vital. Dickson is an example of a company that offers data loggers and management software that can be implemented in this manner.

Using these types of data loggers allows the aerospace industry to maintain optimal conditions for making the products they produce; that helps them safely deal with volatile materials. Since they produce products using all types of electronics, metals, plastics, synthetic compounds, and other sensitive materials, precise conditions must be maintained. How they maintain these conditions varies greatly between facilities of different sizes, setups, and located in different climates, which is why comprehensive data tracking is so important for each facility that creates aerospace products.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the ways manufacturers can make better use of data. Big data is the new frontier of manufacturing and the companies that use it best will see quicker, larger, and longer-lasting improvements to their processes and outcomes than companies who don’t. Integrating IoT devices into the manufacturing process is the best way to start capturing and utilizing this data today.

Business

Top 5 Virtual Assistant Companies to Watch in 2025

Published

7 days ago

January 23, 2025

Matthew Wiles

Running a successful business in today’s fast-paced world requires a sharp focus on growth, strategy, and efficiency. However, managing the day-to-day operations can often become overwhelming. That’s where virtual assistant (VA) companies come into play. These companies specialize in providing skilled professionals who can handle everything from administrative tasks to customer service, marketing, and beyond, allowing entrepreneurs and small business owners to focus on what they do best.

With so many VA companies on the market, choosing the right one can be a challenge. To help you navigate the options, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 virtual assistant companies to watch in 2025. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a startup founder, or a busy professional, these companies offer top-tier solutions to meet your needs.

1. Assist World – The Gold Standard in Virtual Assistance

At the top of our list is Assist World, a U.S.-based company renowned for its personalized approach to matching clients with virtual assistants. Assist World goes beyond the typical “one-size-fits-all” model by taking the time to understand your unique needs and connecting you with highly skilled VAs who align perfectly with your business goals.

What Makes Assist World Stand Out?

Personalized Matching: Assist World matches clients with virtual assistants based on their specific requirements, ensuring the right fit every time.
Comprehensive Onboarding Process: The company’s seamless onboarding process streamlines communication and ensures VAs hit the ground running.
Client Success Management: Dedicated client success managers oversee the relationship, providing ongoing support and ensuring smooth operations.
Flexibility and Scalability: Assist World caters to businesses of all sizes, offering flexible plans that can scale as your business grows.

Who Is It Best For?

Assist World is ideal for entrepreneurs and small-to-medium businesses seeking a reliable, high-quality VA service that delivers consistent results.

Pricing:

Pricing is customized based on your needs, making it accessible for a wide range of budgets. Schedule a free consultation to learn more.

2. Time Etc – Affordable and Efficient

If affordability is your priority, Time Etc is a strong contender. This VA company specializes in administrative tasks and offers services at competitive rates. With a team of experienced professionals, Time Etc focuses on helping clients boost productivity without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

Dedicated VAs with extensive experience.
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
Focused primarily on administrative and organizational tasks.

Who Is It Best For?

Time Etc is a great choice for solopreneurs and small businesses looking for cost-effective virtual assistance for basic tasks.

Pricing:

Plans start at $29 per hour, with discounts available for bulk hours.

3. Belay – A Leader in Remote Executive Assistance

For those in need of executive-level support, Belay is a premier option. This company specializes in matching clients with highly skilled remote assistants who can handle complex tasks such as calendar management, bookkeeping, and project coordination.

Key Features:

Focus on executive and specialized assistance.
Rigorous vetting process for VAs.
Excellent client support.

Who Is It Best For?

Belay is ideal for CEOs, executives, and high-level professionals who require top-tier assistance.

Pricing:

Premium services come at a higher price point, starting around $2,000 per month for part-time support (45 hours a month). For 85 hours a month, pricing sits around $3,800.

4. MyOutDesk – Virtual Assistants for Real Estate

Real estate professionals, take note: MyOutDesk is the go-to VA service for your industry. Specializing in real estate operations, MyOutDesk provides skilled VAs who can handle lead generation, transaction coordination, and CRM management.

Key Features:

Expertise in real estate processes.
Comprehensive training programs for VAs.
Proven track record with top real estate agents.

Who Is It Best For?

Realtors, brokers, and real estate teams looking to streamline their operations and focus on closing deals.

Pricing:

Pricing starts at $1,750 per month for full-time assistants.

5. Boldly – Premium Virtual Assistant Services

If you’re looking for high-quality, premium VA services, Boldly is worth considering. This company offers subscription-based plans that provide access to experienced VAs skilled in a variety of disciplines, including marketing, customer service, and project management.

Key Features:

Highly experienced professionals.
Flexible subscription plans.
Focus on long-term client relationships.

Who Is It Best For?

Businesses and individuals willing to invest in premium services for comprehensive support.

Pricing:

Plans start at $39 per hour, with monthly subscriptions available.

How to Choose the Right Virtual Assistant Company

When selecting a VA company, consider the following factors:

Your Business Needs: Identify the tasks you want to delegate and choose a company that specializes in those areas.
Budget: Assess how much you’re willing to invest in virtual assistance and find a provider that aligns with your budget.
Flexibility: Look for companies that offer scalable plans to grow with your business.
Support: Choose a company with excellent client support to ensure smooth communication and problem resolution.

Why Assist World Is the #1 Choice

While all the companies on this list offer excellent services, Assist World stands out for its personalized approach, exceptional client success management, and flexible solutions, and most importantly, their fair pricing. At Assist World, prices generally fall between $1,500 – $2,000 a month for a full-time dedicated executive assistant. With a proven track record of helping businesses thrive, Assist World is the ultimate partner for entrepreneurs and small businesses ready to scale efficiently and effectively.

Ready to take your business to the next level? Schedule a free consultation with Assist World today and discover the difference a high-quality virtual assistant can make.