Ep. 199 - ERP Implementation & Strategy: What Manufacturers Need to Know

Manufacturing Hub

#Tech #MBA #Business #Vlad Romanov & Dave Griffith #Dave Griffiths #Vlad Romanov #Manufacturing #Automation #Industries

40:34

We’ve turned intuition into a buzzword—flattened it into a slogan, a gut feeling, or a vague whisper we don’t always know how to hear. But what if intuition is so much more? What if it's one of the most powerful tools we have—and we’ve just forgotten how to use it? In this episode, I’m joined by Hrund Gunnsteinsdóttir , Icelandic thought leader, filmmaker, and author of InnSæi: Icelandic Wisdom for Turbulent Times . Hrund has spent over 20 years studying and teaching the science and art of intuition through her TED Talk, Netflix documentary (InnSæi: The Power of Intuition), and global work on leadership, innovation, and inner knowing. Together, we explore what intuition really is (hint: not woo-woo), how to cultivate it in a culture obsessed with logic and overthinking, and why your ability to listen to yourself might be the most essential skill you can develop. In This Episode, We Cover: ✅ Why we’ve misunderstood intuition—and how to reclaim it ✅ Practical ways to strengthen your intuitive muscle ✅ What Icelandic wisdom teaches us about inner knowing ✅ How to use intuition during uncertainty and decision-making ✅ Why trusting yourself is an act of rebellion (and power) Intuition isn’t magic—it’s a deep, internal guidance system that already exists inside you. The question is: are you listening? Connect with Hrund: Website: www.hrundgunnsteinsdottir.com TedTalk: https://www.ted.com/talks/hrund_gunnsteinsdottir_listen_to_your_intuition_it_can_help_you_navigate_the_future?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare Newsletter: https://hrundgunnsteinsdottir.com/blog/ LI: www.linkedin.com/in/hrundgunnsteinsdottir IG: https://www.instagram.com/hrundgunnsteinsdottir/ Book: InnSæi: Icelandic Wisdom for Turbulent Times Related Podcast Episodes: How To Breathe: Breathwork, Intuition and Flow State with Francesca Sipma | 267 VI4P - Know Who You Are (Chapter 4) Gentleness: Cultivating Compassion for Yourself and Others with Courtney Carver | 282 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! 🔗 Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

about a year ago 1:07:23

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Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems have been a cornerstone of manufacturing operations for decades. They provide a centralized platform for managing finance, supply chain, inventory, production, logistics, and human resources. As digital transformation accelerates, ERP systems are evolving with advancements in cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and industrial data analytics. With an increasing number of manufacturers shifting from legacy on-premise systems to cloud-based ERP solutions, the landscape is rapidly changing.

Our guest, Elvis Burcul, brings over 30 years of experience in enterprise solutions, asset-intensive industries, and ERP deployments. In this episode, we explore:

✔️ His journey from electrical engineering to enterprise systems
✔️ ERP fundamentals – What it is, why it matters, and key challenges in implementation
✔️ Triggers for ERP investment – When should companies consider upgrading or migrating?
✔️ ERP vendor landscape – From industry giants (SAP, Oracle, Microsoft) to emerging, specialized solutions
✔️ The impact of AI, cloud computing, and data strategy on ERP decision-making
✔️ How to avoid implementation fatigue and ensure a smooth rollout
✔️ The importance of governance, integration, and aligning ERP with business goals

Why ERP Matters More Than Ever
ERP systems continue to play a fundamental role in manufacturing, with nearly half of all manufacturers actively using or considering ERP solutions. The ERP market has grown significantly in recent years and is expected to nearly double in size over the next decade. As companies look for ways to enhance efficiency and streamline operations, ERP adoption is increasingly seen as a competitive necessity rather than a luxury.

However, ERP implementations can be complex and costly, often taking years to fully integrate into a company’s workflow. Implementation fatigue, outdated data governance practices, and the struggle to extract meaningful insights from collected data remain significant barriers. A well-executed ERP strategy requires a clear roadmap, strong leadership support, and ongoing engagement with stakeholders to ensure long-term success.

AI, Cloud, and the Future of ERP
AI-powered ERP systems are now capable of predictive analytics, anomaly detection, and real-time decision-making, helping manufacturers optimize performance. Cloud-based ERP solutions are also reshaping the industry by providing greater scalability, accessibility, and security. The shift to cloud ERP allows companies to reduce infrastructure costs while improving data-driven decision-making through better integration with industrial IoT and other smart manufacturing technologies.

📢 Interested in ERP adoption or optimization? Connect with Elvis and the Talan team at Talan.com or visit them at the American Manufacturing Summit in Chicago (March 19-20, 2025).

🎧 Subscribe & Follow Us for more deep dives into manufacturing, automation, and digital transformation!

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205 episodes

Ep. 199 - ERP Implementation & Strategy: What Manufacturers Need to Know

Manufacturing Hub

18 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Our guest, Elvis Burcul, brings over 30 years of experience in enterprise solutions, asset-intensive industries, and ERP deployments. In this episode, we explore:

📢 Interested in ERP adoption or optimization? Connect with Elvis and the Talan team at Talan.com or visit them at the American Manufacturing Summit in Chicago (March 19-20, 2025).

🎧 Subscribe & Follow Us for more deep dives into manufacturing, automation, and digital transformation!

******
Connect with Us

205 episodes

#Tech #MBA #Business #Vlad Romanov & Dave Griffith #Dave Griffiths #Vlad Romanov #Manufacturing #Automation #Industries

All episodes

Manufacturing Hub

1
Ep. 209 - From PLCs to SCADA and MES Dylan's Real-World Journey Through Modern Manufacturing Systems 1:14:44

9 days ago1:14:44

1:14:44

In Episode 209 of Manufacturing Hub, we sit down with Dylan to explore the full spectrum of automation—from his early hands-on experiences in PLC programming all the way to architecting full-scale SCADA and MES systems. If you're looking to understand what it really takes to grow a career in industrial automation, this conversation delivers raw insights, practical lessons, and battle-tested strategies from the plant floor to the boardroom. Dylan shares how his career evolved from service technician to systems integrator, detailing the learning curve involved in jumping between platforms like Ignition, FactoryTalk, Wonderware, and SQL databases. We dig into real-world project challenges, the importance of simulation and testing, and what it means to deliver systems that operators actually enjoy using. Along the way, Dylan offers valuable advice on how to learn faster, deal with unclear project scopes, and design better user interfaces by borrowing principles from modern UX and UI design. We also examine: Why ownership and internal technical teams are critical for end users The importance of interoperability and avoiding vendor or integrator lock-in How project creep really happens and what you can do about it Visualization trends in SCADA and HMI systems, including practical opinions on high-performance design and AR/VR Data strategies for manufacturing, from pipe-level decisions to planning for future use cases Dylan’s new venture, Abelara, and how it helps manufacturers align executive vision with plant-floor execution This episode is a must-listen for engineers, integrators, and manufacturing leaders looking to modernize their operations while keeping both usability and scalability in mind. Whether you’re early in your automation career or navigating complex transformation efforts, you’ll walk away with insights you can apply immediately. ⏱ Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 00:08 – What is Manufacturing Hub? Meet Dylan, our guest 02:00 – Dylan’s career path from tech school to SCADA systems 04:00 – Early project experience and rapid on-the-job learning 06:30 – Moving from PLCs to SCADA and MES development 08:20 – Learning without mentors: forums, support lines, and trial by fire 10:10 – Challenges and opportunities with modern control platforms 12:00 – Vendor openness, interoperability, and practical system limitations 15:00 – Scope creep and how to reduce it with better project planning 17:00 – The role of simulation and show-and-tell in successful startups 20:00 – Getting end user buy-in from operators to executives 22:15 – UI and UX in industrial systems: beyond standards and templates 26:00 – Why most HMI screens are outdated and how to improve them 30:00 – Using consumer design trends in industrial HMI development 33:00 – Ownership vs. partnership: the evolving role of integrators 36:00 – Visualization tools: what's working and what still needs to improve 40:00 – Data in manufacturing: planning, silos, and interoperability 45:00 – Why planning trumps tools and how to avoid duplicate systems 49:00 – Real talk on end user responsibility and integrator lock-in 54:00 – How local integrators can thrive in a reshoring environment 57:30 – Early signs and implications of reshoring in manufacturing 01:01:00 – Introducing Abelara: Dylan and Glenn’s new consulting venture 01:04:00 – Book recommendation: Silos, Politics and Turf Wars 01:06:00 – Career advice for new engineers: learn by doing 01:09:00 – Final thoughts and how to connect with Dylan and Abelara 📘 Book Mentioned: Silos, Politics and Turf Wars by Patrick Lencioni – A foundational read for breaking down barriers and aligning teams across departments. 🎙 Learn more about Dylan and his work at Abelara: https://abelara.com Check out the manufacturing newsletter - https://www.framexl.com/ Subscribe for weekly conversations with experts pushing the boundaries in automation, controls, manufacturing systems, and digital transformation.…

Manufacturing Hub

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Ep. 208 - Modernizing Manufacturing: Insights on Cybersecurity, Obsolescence, and AI Integration 1:10:41

24 days ago1:10:41

1:10:41

In this episode of Manufacturing Hub, co-hosts Vlad and Dave turn the spotlight on themselves and share deeply practical stories from the front lines of industrial transformation. With decades of experience consulting across manufacturing verticals, they unpack some of the most pressing (and often misunderstood) topics shaping the future of factories today—from aging infrastructure and insurance-driven cybersecurity to real-world applications of artificial intelligence and organizational change. If you're a plant manager, controls engineer, systems integrator, or digital transformation leader, this episode delivers grounded, no-fluff advice you can apply right away. 🧠 Key Themes & Topics Covered: 🔐 Cybersecurity as a Financial Decision: Vlad explains how cybersecurity initiatives often originate from IT and are directly influenced by rising insurance premiums, making cyber-risk quantifiable. Learn how assessments now inform insurance underwriting and why updating your legacy OT systems could lower your premiums and risk exposure. 🛠️ Obsolescence Assessments & Risk-Based Planning: Explore the actual workflow of auditing plant-floor systems, from identifying unsupported PLCs (like PLC-5s or Data Highway+) to negotiating priorities between IT directors, engineering teams, and insurance firms. Vlad shares real examples of balancing modernization costs with production constraints and process uptime. 📊 Why Assessments Are Just the Beginning: Understand how post-audit phases translate into strategic proposals that combine low-hanging fruit projects with long-term roadmaps. Learn how organizations build 3–5 year modernization strategies—without bringing operations to a halt. 🤖 AI Strategy in Manufacturing—Beyond the Hype: Dave shares how enterprise leaders—from CEOs to HR and IT departments—are approaching AI with curiosity but confusion. He outlines a clear framework for structuring executive workshops, evaluating tools, and identifying high-impact use cases across functions (from maintenance to HR to accounting). 🧩 AI Agents, Co-Pilots, and the Future of Decision-Making: Explore the evolving role of AI agents and LLM-based tools on the shop floor. Dave breaks down what AI agents are, how they might function in the future (e.g., executive dashboards that talk back), and what security hurdles still block widespread deployment in industrial settings. ⚠️ The Reality of Change Management: Implementing new tech is hard. Dave discusses how real change happens only when frontline champions (not just executives) see personal value in new tools. Hear the story of how one skeptical veteran technician became a project’s biggest advocate—once it solved a pain point he had lived with for decades. 🔁 IT/OT Alignment & Organizational Silos: The hosts discuss why most enterprise-scale modernization efforts stall—not due to technical complexity, but due to siloed budgets, conflicting incentives, and competing visions between digital transformation leads, IT VPs, and plant operations. ⏱️ Timing Is Everything: Even with budget in hand, projects often face delays due to scheduling around critical uptime windows. Vlad explains how production planning often dictates digital progress, especially in lean operations like food & beverage and life sciences. 🎯 Who This Episode Is For: Engineering & operations leaders navigating legacy infrastructure Cybersecurity professionals responsible for OT risk mitigation Plant managers balancing uptime with modernization goals Digital transformation executives driving multi-year initiatives System integrators and consultants supporting migration projects Anyone curious about how AI is actually being evaluated in manufacturing 📢 Don’t forget to: ✅ Like this episode if you learned something 📝 Comment with your thoughts or questions 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes exploring the frontlines of manufacturing 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform…

Manufacturing Hub

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Ep. 207 - From Bioreactors to Vaccines: What You Need to Know About Life Sciences Automation 1:06:33

4 weeks ago1:06:33

1:06:33

In this episode of Manufacturing Hub, we welcome Amy Williams, Systems Architect at Skellig, for a deep dive into the world of life sciences manufacturing, a rarely explored but incredibly complex part of the industrial landscape. From her roots in biomolecular chemical engineering to her hands-on role in Operation Warp Speed, Amy walks us through what it's really like to build and validate manufacturing systems for pharmaceutical and biotechnology applications under FDA regulation. 💊🧪 We explore: What exactly qualifies as "life sciences" in manufacturing Why GMP compliance and validation are critical, and how they slow everything down How Operation Warp Speed succeeded in compressing a 10-year process into months The role of automation, MES, and DCS in life sciences Why paper-based MES is still sometimes the fastest way forward (and why that needs to change) How companies are moving toward digitization, better data exchange, and process analytical technology (PAT) Amy also shares her thoughts on: The importance of cross-functional collaboration in regulated environments Tips for engineers looking to break into the life sciences space Why owning your control code might be more valuable than you think If you're in automation, MES, or engineering leadership, and especially if you work in or around FDA-regulated industries—this episode is a must-listen. 🎧 Subscribe for more practical conversations at the intersection of manufacturing, automation, and strategy. 🔗 Connect with Amy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-williams-automation 📚 Book Recommendation: The Technology Fallacy…

Manufacturing Hub

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Ep. 206 - From Plant Floor to Strategy: Ryan Cahalane on Fixing What Matters in Manufacturing 1:13:54

5 weeks ago1:13:54

1:13:54

We’re kicking off a new theme—Faces You Should Know in Manufacturing—with none other than Ryan Cahalane, Managing Partner at Axiom Manufacturing Systems. Ryan’s path through manufacturing is anything but ordinary: from plant floor engineering at Goodyear, to leadership roles at GE, Rockwell Automation, OSIsoft, and more, Ryan has worked every angle of the manufacturing ecosystem. In this episode, Ryan joins Dave and Vlad to unpack the biggest real challenges manufacturers are facing today—not the buzzwords, not the hype, but the deep, persistent problems slowing progress across the industry. We discuss: Why there’s no one-size-fits-all solution—and why misalignment is more common than we admit The skill gap crisis: it’s not just about training, it’s about pay, experience, and opportunity The AI distraction: why most companies aren’t ready, and how AI is best used today in manufacturing The dangers of LinkedIn echo chambers and shiny object syndrome in tech selection Why engineers struggle to move into consulting—and why they shouldn’t be afraid to try The unique challenges (and hope) in mid-market manufacturing—and how nimble companies can still win The need for a Sherpa, not a savior: how consultants should support, not dictate Ryan’s story is filled with rich personal insights: from trading stocks and working at Deloitte, to recovering from a stroke and launching Axiom, he brings a grounded, field-tested perspective that connects strategy, operations, and technology in ways few others can. If you're a plant manager, engineer, executive, or someone who helps manufacturers grow—this conversation will challenge your assumptions, validate your experiences, and probably make you laugh. This isn’t just another talk about “digital transformation.” It’s a real look at what it takes to lead, adapt, and deliver in a manufacturing world that refuses to sit still.…

Manufacturing Hub

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Ep. 205 - What Manufacturers Need to Know About UNS, MQTT, and Ignition After Prove It 38:56

6 weeks ago38:56

38:56

Welcome back to a special Thursday edition of Manufacturing Hub! In this episode, we dive deep into one of the standout presentations from the Prove It conference — featuring Travis Cox from Inductive Automation and Arlen Nipper from Cirrus Link Solutions. 🎥 We start by reflecting on the Prove It showcase, where Travis and Arlen demonstrated the power of Unified Namespace (UNS) and MQTT across every layer of the solution stack — from Edge devices, to the Ignition Gateway, to the Cloud. ➡️ Watch as we discuss their approach to scalability, ease of deployment, and why Ignition continues to lead the way in industrial digital infrastructure. During the show, we cover: ✅ The real-world adoption of MQTT vs OPC UA in manufacturing environments, and why OPC UA is still dominant in many industries. ✅ Why naming conventions and early standardization are critical for successful UNS architectures. ✅ How to tackle data contextualization and overcome the "tech debt" so common in brownfield facilities. ✅ The importance of leadership-driven digital transformation and true IT/OT convergence. ✅ Why future-ready architectures require blending traditional technologies like OPC UA with MQTT and open standards. ✅ Insights into how small, medium, and enterprise manufacturers should approach digital transformation differently. Travis shares incredible insights on: 🔹 The evolution of Ignition and its role as an IIoT platform 🔹 Why a common digital infrastructure is non-negotiable for scaling 🔹 How even small wins (like energy monitoring) can spark major cultural shifts in manufacturing organizations 🔹 The growing role of IT leaders in successful plant floor modernization efforts 🔹 How AI, ML, and advanced analytics will shape the future of real-time industrial operations We also dive into broader industry trends seen at Prove It, including how other platforms like Frameworks (Tatsoft) and WinCC OA (Siemens) position themselves in the evolving digital manufacturing landscape. Helpful Links: 🔗 Learn more about Inductive Automation: https://inductiveautomation.com 🔗 Manufacturing Hub Podcast Archives: https://manufacturinghub.live Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro and Prove It Recap 5:30 - First impressions of the Inductive Automation session 11:50 - MQTT vs OPC UA in real-world manufacturing 18:10 - Challenges of UNS deployment and the importance of standards 28:40 - IT/OT convergence and building unified teams 38:20 - What sparks digital transformation success? 47:10 - How Ignition fits into modern industrial architectures 55:00 - Closing thoughts on Prove It and the future of manufacturing 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on industrial automation, digital transformation, and manufacturing leadership every week!…

Manufacturing Hub

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Ep. 204 - Making ERP Work in Manufacturing | ERP Deep Dive with Glenn 1:23:45

7 weeks ago1:23:45

1:23:45

In Episode 204 of Manufacturing Hub, we wrap up our month-long ERP series with Glenn from Waites. Glenn shares a practical framework for understanding ERP systems—perfect for engineers, plant managers, and anyone who’s struggled with clunky ERP software. We break down key modules like Financials, Supply Chain, MES, and Asset Management, and explore how modern tools are reshaping ERP usability. 🔹 What You’ll Learn: Glenn’s 3-part ERP mental model: Master Data, Transactions, Workflow The difference between push vs. pull supply chain systems (MRP vs. Lean) Why gross margin is the #1 financial metric you need to watch How MES and condition monitoring tools integrate with ERP Practical advice for engineers navigating digital transformation & MBAs 💡 Perfect for anyone struggling to make sense of their ERP, or looking to modernize their stack without losing their sanity. 📘 Recommended Reading: Lessons in Industrial Instrumentation by Tony Kuphaldt – Free online technical resource 👤 Guest: Glenn – Chief Product Officer at Waites and co-founder of a new digital transformation consultancy with Dylan Dufrene 🛠️ Sponsored by Talan Experts in ERP integration across SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, and Oracle Learn more: https://www.talan.com Catch Elvis from Talan in Episode 199 📌 Watch all ERP Month episodes: 199, 201, 203, 204 🔔 Don’t forget to Like, Subscribe & Hit the Bell! #ERP #Manufacturing #MES #DigitalTransformation #IndustrialAutomation #ManufacturingHub #EngineeringLeadership #SCADA #PlantOperations #Waites #Talan ****** Connect with Us Vlad Romanov Dave Griffith Manufacturing Hub SolisPLC Joltek…

Manufacturing Hub

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Ep. 203 - From Spreadsheets to Structure: ERP for Machine Builders & SIs 1:09:00

7 weeks ago1:09:00

1:09:00

In this episode, Dave and Vlad are joined by Jay and RJ from Total ETO to explore the often overlooked world of ERP for machine builders and systems integrators. While ERP conversations often focus on large-scale deployments like SAP or Oracle, this episode dives into the day-to-day of smaller, engineer-to-order (ETO) businesses—where spreadsheets still reign and project complexity is high. Jay and RJ share their unique perspectives—Jay coming from 25 years in automation and becoming a Total ETO user-turned-employee, and RJ bringing three decades of software expertise focused specifically on this niche. Together, they break down: The unique ERP needs of custom machine builders and SIs Why project-based workflows don't fit traditional manufacturing ERPs Common pitfalls like spreadsheet reliance and change order chaos The difference between machine builders and system integrators (and how ERP can serve both) How they approach implementation in 4–6 months, not 4–6 years Why people who've used Total ETO often end up joining the company Whether you're managing projects off scratch paper or already in the market for your first ERP, this episode is full of insights on how to bring structure and visibility to custom manufacturing. 💡 Key Topics [00:02:00] Intro to Total ETO and backgrounds of Jay and RJ [00:12:00] The life of a machine builder: high variability, custom BOMs, and the project-first mindset [00:22:00] Why most ETO businesses still run on spreadsheets [00:31:00] The emotional journey from ERP user to ERP evangelist [00:39:00] System integrators vs. machine builders: similar goals, different workflows [00:47:00] Why one-size-fits-all ERP fails for custom equipment manufacturing [00:58:00] Getting buy-in for ERP: from small teams to company-wide rollouts [01:07:00] Implementation: how Total ETO does it in under 6 months [01:18:00] Integration with CAD tools like SolidWorks and Inventor [01:26:00] The future: AI, web platforms, and the changing face of manufacturing software 🧠 Memorable Quotes “Spreadsheets give me nightmares. That’s the main thing.” – Jay “Nothing gets done accidentally. You have to make ERP implementation a priority.” – RJ “We’re often a company’s first ERP—and we aim to be their last.” – RJ “Everything in ETO is dynamic. It’s not static like mass production. And your ERP needs to reflect that.” – Jay 📚 Book & Content Recommendation 📰 Automation AMA – The Automation Navigator by Sean Dotson Recommended by both Jay and RJ as an insightful, down-to-earth read for automation professionals. 🎉 Shoutouts Thanks to TALAN for sponsoring this month’s ERP theme! And a special mention to Taylor Dykstra for supporting Total ETO at ProMat this week! ****** Connect with Us Vlad Romanov Dave Griffith Manufacturing Hub SolisPLC Joltek…

Manufacturing Hub

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Ep. 202 - Inside Opto 22: Unified Namespace, Edge Computing, and Cybersecurity @ ProveIt 30:49

8 weeks ago30:49

30:49

What does it take to move from automation hype to practical, scalable solutions on the factory floor? In this deep-dive episode of Manufacturing Hub, recorded live at the ProveIt Conference, we’re joined by Benson Hougland, Vice President at Opto 22—a company that has been quietly shaping the future of industrial automation for over 50 years. Benson walks us through the journey of Opto 22: from its roots as the birthplace of the solid-state relay to becoming a leader in edge-native control platforms with the groov EPIC and groov RIO product lines. More importantly, he reveals how Opto 22 is tackling two of the most critical challenges in modern manufacturing: democratizing OT data and cybersecurity at the edge. We cover: ✅ Who Opto 22 really is and what they set out to "prove" at the ProveIt Conference ✅ The role of the Unified Namespace (UNS) in enabling real-time industrial data architecture ✅ How Opto’s platforms help solve the "dark asset" problem in brownfield facilities ✅ Cybersecurity by design—not just bolted on later ✅ Why the controller of the future is more like a smartphone than a flip phone ✅ Running containers on the edge: what this unlocks for OT teams ✅ Long-term partnerships with companies like Inductive Automation and why that matters ✅ How Opto 22 systems remain IT-friendly, OT-usable, and fully made in the USA ✅ Their collaboration with the State of Indiana to bring energy-focused digital transformation to SMB manufacturers ✅ Lessons from past moonshots—like cellular control systems with Nokia that were ahead of their time ✅ What’s next: ML at the edge, scalable architectures, and more accessible solutions for plants without big digital teams Throughout the conversation, Benson emphasizes a philosophy that will resonate with anyone trying to lead transformation in manufacturing: start small, solve a real problem, and scale with purpose. Whether you're tackling legacy infrastructure, looking to secure your OT layer, or just trying to make sense of the noise in the automation space, this episode will leave you with tangible ideas and a clear-eyed view of what's possible. 🎧 Plus: Why PLCs need to behave more like clients, why MQTT is so central to modern architectures, and how to get buy-in from leadership with energy wins. ****** Connect with Us Vlad Romanov Dave Griffith Manufacturing Hub SolisPLC Joltek…

Manufacturing Hub

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Ep. 201 - ERP in Manufacturing: Strategy, Culture, and Change Management 1:11:07

9 weeks ago1:11:07

1:11:07

In Episode 201 of Manufacturing Hub, we sit down with Tim Brown, a veteran leader with over 40 years of experience across manufacturing, construction, and IT. From managing massive ERP transformations to navigating global M&A integrations, Tim shares a masterclass in how to make enterprise software actually work in complex industrial environments. We cover everything from: What it was like managing ERP during Y2K The critical difference between push vs. pull drivers for ERP change How mergers and acquisitions shape ERP strategy Why “people problems” derail ERP more than technology ever does Real tactics for managing global rollouts (including Japan, France, Canada, and the U.S.) His take on embedded AI in ERP platforms (and where it's really going) Governance, risk, and how to actually drive adoption Whether you’re an IT leader, plant manager, systems integrator, or just ERP-curious — this episode offers real-world lessons and practical guidance from someone who’s done it all. 🔹 Thank you to this month’s sponsor: TALAN Helping manufacturers navigate ERP adoption, migration, and integration across SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle, and more. Meet them at the American Manufacturing Summit in Chicago on March 19–20, or visit their site to learn more. 👇 Drop your questions or share your ERP war stories in the comments — we’d love to hear from you! 📌 Chapters 0:00 Intro 4:00 Tim’s Background & ERP Journey 9:00 Y2K & Early ERP Lessons 15:00 ERP Triggers: Push vs. Pull 22:00 M&A Integrations: How It Actually Happens 30:00 Roadblocks: People, Culture, and “We’re Special” Syndrome 40:00 Standardization vs. Flexibility in Rollouts 48:00 ERP Selection: Process, Partners, and Politics 58:00 Risk Mitigation & Change Management 1:05:00 MES, Data Ownership & Operational Autonomy 1:18:00 AI & the Future of ERP 1:25:00 Career Advice from Tim 1:30:00 Final Thoughts & Book Recommendation 🎧 Listen to Episode 199 with Elvis (Talen) for more on ERP selection 👉 https://youtu.be/YOUR-LINK-HERE 🔗 Follow us on LinkedIn 📬 Never miss an episode — subscribe to the podcast on your favorite platform! ****** Connect with Us Vlad Romanov Dave Griffith Manufacturing Hub SolisPLC Joltek…

Manufacturing Hub

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Ep. 200 - From Plant Floor to Enterprise: Tatsoft Shows Off Frameworks IIoT Platform 38:51

9 weeks ago38:51

38:51

In this episode recorded live at the ProveIt Conference, we sit down with Mark and Harry from Tatsoft, creators of the industrial IIoT platform Frameworks. We dive deep into how Tatsoft is redefining what a true industrial platform should be — built from the ground up for the factory floor, yet scalable across the enterprise. Mark and Harry walk us through: Their platform’s positioning as a SCADA, HMI, MES, and IIoT toolbox — all in one How Frameworks handles real-time data, from connectivity (MQTT, OPC UA, SQL) to transformation and dynamic visualization Why the “extra I in IIoT” matters when building for industrial environments The challenges of IT/OT integration, people gaps, and legacy systems — and how Tatsoft tackles them head-on A demo of their ProveIt solution, showing off auto-recognition of new assets, dynamic UI, and high-performance visualization across devices Whether you’re an end user, system integrator, or OEM, this episode will help you understand how Tatsoft’s Frameworks V10 is enabling fast, scalable, and future-proof industrial applications — without compromise. 🔗 Learn more about Tatsoft: https://www.tatsoft.com 🎥 Live from the show floor at ProveIt 2025. 📅 Watch Manufacturing Hub live every Wednesday at 4PM ET. ****** Connect with Us Vlad Romanov Dave Griffith Manufacturing Hub SolisPLC Joltek…

Manufacturing Hub

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Ep. 199 - ERP Implementation & Strategy: What Manufacturers Need to Know 1:07:23

10 weeks ago1:07:23

1:07:23

Welcome back to Manufacturing Hub! This March 2025, we’re diving deep into Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), exploring its critical role in manufacturing, the challenges of implementation, and the future of ERP solutions. This episode is sponsored by Talan, a leading firm specializing in ERP adoption, migration, and integration. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems have been a cornerstone of manufacturing operations for decades. They provide a centralized platform for managing finance, supply chain, inventory, production, logistics, and human resources. As digital transformation accelerates, ERP systems are evolving with advancements in cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and industrial data analytics. With an increasing number of manufacturers shifting from legacy on-premise systems to cloud-based ERP solutions, the landscape is rapidly changing. Our guest, Elvis Burcul, brings over 30 years of experience in enterprise solutions, asset-intensive industries, and ERP deployments. In this episode, we explore: ✔️ His journey from electrical engineering to enterprise systems ✔️ ERP fundamentals – What it is, why it matters, and key challenges in implementation ✔️ Triggers for ERP investment – When should companies consider upgrading or migrating? ✔️ ERP vendor landscape – From industry giants (SAP, Oracle, Microsoft) to emerging, specialized solutions ✔️ The impact of AI, cloud computing, and data strategy on ERP decision-making ✔️ How to avoid implementation fatigue and ensure a smooth rollout ✔️ The importance of governance, integration, and aligning ERP with business goals Why ERP Matters More Than Ever ERP systems continue to play a fundamental role in manufacturing, with nearly half of all manufacturers actively using or considering ERP solutions. The ERP market has grown significantly in recent years and is expected to nearly double in size over the next decade. As companies look for ways to enhance efficiency and streamline operations, ERP adoption is increasingly seen as a competitive necessity rather than a luxury. However, ERP implementations can be complex and costly, often taking years to fully integrate into a company’s workflow. Implementation fatigue, outdated data governance practices, and the struggle to extract meaningful insights from collected data remain significant barriers. A well-executed ERP strategy requires a clear roadmap, strong leadership support, and ongoing engagement with stakeholders to ensure long-term success. AI, Cloud, and the Future of ERP AI-powered ERP systems are now capable of predictive analytics, anomaly detection, and real-time decision-making, helping manufacturers optimize performance. Cloud-based ERP solutions are also reshaping the industry by providing greater scalability, accessibility, and security. The shift to cloud ERP allows companies to reduce infrastructure costs while improving data-driven decision-making through better integration with industrial IoT and other smart manufacturing technologies. 📢 Interested in ERP adoption or optimization? Connect with Elvis and the Talan team at Talan.com or visit them at the American Manufacturing Summit in Chicago (March 19-20, 2025). 🎧 Subscribe & Follow Us for more deep dives into manufacturing, automation, and digital transformation! ****** Connect with Us Talan Vlad Romanov Dave Griffith Manufacturing Hub SolisPLC Joltek…

Manufacturing Hub

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Ep. 198 - Prove It Recap: What Worked, What Didn’t & Key Takeaways from the Conference 1:12:37

11 weeks ago1:12:37

1:12:37

Welcome to Episode 198 of Manufacturing Hub with Vlad and Dave! This week, we’re diving into a full recap of the Prove It conference—one of the biggest and most talked-about industrial automation events, held last week in Dallas, Texas. If you've been anywhere near LinkedIn, you've probably seen the buzz! What made Prove It different? A real-world factory simulation with imperfect data 40 vendors challenged to "prove" their solutions in real time Hard-hitting questions: What problem did you solve? How long did it take? How much did it cost? A no-fluff format with tough audience Q&A Our Key Takeaways: ✅ What It Means to "Prove It" – Success stories and areas for improvement ✅ The Best (and Not-So-Great) Presentations – What set some companies apart? ✅ Innovative Solutions & New Product Announcements – Highlights from HiveMQ Pulse, Litmus AI, Flow’s Timebase, and more ✅ The Role of Integrators – How firms like MAC Controls, JPI Solutions, and Concept Reply demonstrated practical applications ✅ The Future of Prove It – What we'd like to see in 2026 Join us as we break down the most exciting presentations, the surprises, the challenges, and the opportunities ahead in industrial automation. Next Month: We’re diving deep into ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) in manufacturing! We’ll bring in experts, consultants, and end-users to discuss ERP selection, implementation, and optimization. 💬 Did you attend Prove It? What were your key takeaways? Let us know in the comments! 🎧 Listen, subscribe, and leave us a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform! 🚀 #ManufacturingHub #ProveIt #IndustrialAutomation #ERP #IIoT #DigitalTransformation ****** Connect with Us Vlad Romanov Dave Griffith Manufacturing Hub SolisPLC Joltek…

Manufacturing Hub

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Ep. 197 - Inside ProveIt 2025: How 36 Vendors Connected to One Unified Factory 58:20

12 weeks ago58:20

58:20

We’re coming to you LIVE from the ProveIt Conference in Dallas, TX, where we’re witnessing one of the most groundbreaking manufacturing and industrial automation events in history. Hosted by Walker Reynolds and the 4.0 Solutions team, ProveIt brings together 36+ vendors, industry leaders, and a massive community to showcase real-world digital transformation solutions—all connected to a unified namespace (UNS) virtual factory. In this episode, Dave and Vlad from Manufacturing Hub go behind the scenes with Walker Reynolds, discussing: ✅ The vision behind ProveIt – What it takes to create a community-driven industry event ✅ How vendors were challenged to solve real-world problems using real factory data ✅ Key takeaways from top presentations – Tulip, Litmus, Concept Reply/Snowflake, Google Cloud, Dell Native Edge, and more ✅ Lessons learned from integrating 36 vendors into a single, fully functional UNS ✅ The future of ProveIt – What’s coming for 2026 and beyond 🎯 Who should watch? If you’re a manufacturing professional, systems integrator, engineer, or IT/OT leader, this episode is for you. Learn what’s working right now in digital transformation and how companies are leveraging UNS, MQTT, AI, and industrial software solutions to drive real results. 🔗 Key Topics & Timestamps ⏳ 00:00 – Welcome to Day 2 of ProveIt ⏳ 02:15 – Special thanks to Walker Reynolds and the ProveIt team ⏳ 05:30 – What makes ProveIt unique in the industry ⏳ 10:45 – Unified Namespace (UNS) and why it matters ⏳ 15:20 – Behind the scenes of the ProveIt Virtual Factory ⏳ 20:00 – Standout vendor presentations: Tulip, Litmus, Snowflake, Google Cloud, Dell ⏳ 35:10 – Hardest-hitting audience questions and responses ⏳ 50:45 – How ProveIt is changing the game for vendors & integrators ⏳ 01:05:30 – The future of ProveIt: Scaling up for 2026 ⏳ 01:15:10 – Final thoughts and next steps 💡 Featured Companies & Solutions ⭐ HiveMQ – Industrial MQTT broker & Pulse Data Management ⭐ Litmus – AI-driven industrial data and UNS integration ⭐ Tulip – No-code MES and operator-driven solutions ⭐ Concept Reply / Snowflake – Cloud analytics & AI-powered manufacturing intelligence ⭐ Google Cloud – AI-powered industrial solutions ⭐ Dell Native Edge – Enterprise-scale infrastructure management ⭐ Siemens WinCC OA – Advanced industrial SCADA solutions 👥 Join the Community 🔗 ProveIt Discord Server 🔗 Manufacturing Hub Podcast on LinkedIn 🔗 Walker Reynolds & 4.0 Solutions 🔥 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS to stay updated with the latest in manufacturing, automation, and digital transformation! 🔥 #ManufacturingHub #ProveIt2025 #Industry40 #UnifiedNamespace #DigitalTransformation #MQTT #IndustrialAutomation #SmartManufacturing…

Manufacturing Hub

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Ep. 196 - ProveIt Deep Dive: Industrial Automation’s Most Ambitious Event Yet 1:06:57

12 weeks ago1:06:57

1:06:57

In this special episode of Manufacturing Hub , Dave Griffith and Vlad Romanov take a deep dive into the upcoming ProveIt Conference , happening next week in Dallas. This event, spearheaded by Walker Reynolds and Zack Scriven , brings together industry leaders, solution providers, and systems integrators to showcase their capabilities in Unified Namespace (UNS), edge computing, and industrial data operations . What We Cover in This Episode: ProveIt Conference Overview: What to expect, key themes, and why this event is unique in the industrial automation space. Infrastructure & Cloud Providers: Dell and Google Cloud —how they are powering the event and their roles in modern manufacturing architectures. Legacy & Next-Gen Providers: Siemens, AVEVA, Inductive Automation, Tatsoft —what they bring to the table and how they compare. Industrial DataOps Players: Litmus Automation, HiveMQ, and HiByte —the backbone of data transformation and connectivity in modern factories. Systems Integrators & Real-World Applications: The unique opportunity for SIs to showcase full-stack solutions and how they help bridge the gap between legacy systems and modern architectures. Key Challenges & Questions: The complexity of multi-vendor integration, data normalization, and real-time orchestration—what are the biggest technical and strategic hurdles? Why You Should Listen Get insider insights before the event kicks off. Understand the latest trends in industrial automation, MQTT, UNS, and edge computing . Discover what solutions and innovations will shape the future of manufacturing connectivity . Learn how end-users and systems integrators are approaching digital transformation in factories today. Join the Conversation! If you’re attending ProveIt , let us know! Reach out to Dave or Vlad to connect at the conference. Follow Manufacturing Hub on LinkedIn, YouTube, and all podcast platforms to stay updated with live event coverage and post-show insights. 🎙️ Subscribe & Follow for more expert discussions on manufacturing, automation, and industrial technology! ****** Connect with Us Vlad Romanov Dave Griffith Manufacturing Hub SolisPLC Joltek…

Manufacturing Hub

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Ep. 195 - Unlocking Digital Transformation: The Unified Namespace, Industrial Data, and Prove It! 1:11:53

13 weeks ago1:11:53