In a world of heavy machinery and hard wires, the digital factory concept might seem fantastical to some. But manufacturers of all kinds have been taking small steps in this direction for a while now, adopting ever-more sophisticated CAD and MES systems. If you’re looking for more information on what it all means for you, you’ve come to the right place. The resources on this page, including research reports, related articles, and valuable technology directories, can help point you in the right direction, whether you’ve already begun the journey or not. Research Reports & Studies “SME’s Direct Digital Manufacturing Tech Group” For those new to the concept of digital manufacturing, the Society of Manufacturing Engineers’ Direct Digital Manufacturing user group offers a textured look at what the concept means to manufacturing folks, as well as case studies and peer-generated best practices. Business Week’s “10 Cutting-Edge Designers” Series Take a look at the evolution of rapid prototyping, from time-saving test bed to valuable production tool. For manufacturers working with plastics, polymers, metals, paper, and other materials, this Business Week podcast is a must-listen. “Research on Simulation and Evaluation of Production Running in Digital Factory Environment” (subscription) Prominent engineering group IEEE offers members a detailed look at the technical underpinnings of the digital factory. This paper provides insight into how to leverage the concept to verify and optimize product design, manufacturing processes, and production planning. “The Value Proposition for Digital Manufacturing” (registration) The analysts at ARC Advisory offer this assessment of the value statement that digital manufacturing affords the companies that use it, as well as a sketch of adoption rates among goods producers. Technology Corner The off-the-shelf DIGITAL MANUFACTURING PACKAGE is still just a gleam in your software vendor’s eye. This next-generation discipline touches on many facets of operations, from product design to the layout of automation systems. To help you sift through the needed components, we’ve pointed you to some related areas of ManagingAutomation.com’s TechMatch product matching tool. Take a look at these key focus areas to help get you started: CAD Visualization Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) Production & Event Simulation Digital Design Management Related Coverage in Managing Automation “The Digital Factory: The Future of Manufacturing Productivity Webcast Series” Most manufacturers see the ability to push new products into the market more quickly as a critical differentiator. In this webcast, learn how to achieve faster new product cycle times and enable collaboration between new product development and plant engineering teams. “The Digital Factory” The digital factory has been stalled by cost, culture, complexity, and an inability to close the loop between product design and factory floor control. But this report says that is about to change. “PLM and Manufacturing: A Digital Bond” For insight into the intersection of product lifecycle management (PLM) technology and manufacturing operations tools, check out this article on how manufacturers are bridging the gap between production personnel and designers. “The Digital Dream Becomes Reality” As he chased the dream of running a GM plant through the night with no workers on hand, Jim Caie learned a thing or two about the “factory of the future.” Since retiring, he has continued to pursue research on such advanced techniques. Read about his efforts in this illuminating portrait.