The manufacturing industry faces significant challenges. Labor shortages, competition from low-wage countries, and increasing efficiency demands make innovation essential. Digitalization offers companies in the sector opportunities to remain competitive and optimize processes. Jan Willem van der Wolf, connector at Digitalzh for the manufacturing industry, shares his vision on the role of digitalization and how Digitalzh supports entrepreneurs in this endeavor.
From Entrepreneur to Connector
Jan Willem has had a long career in the manufacturing industry. He grew up in a family business specializing in stainless steel tank construction and storage tanks for the food industry. After various acquisitions and a successful sale in 2019, he applied his managerial experience as director of Gouda Onderneemt. There, he closely observed the challenges faced by entrepreneurs. Through Hi Delta (a knowledge partner of Digitalzh), he connected with Digitalzh, where he now assists companies in the manufacturing industry with digitalization.
Why Digitalization Is Essential
“Companies need to work increasingly efficiently to survive,” says Jan Willem. “In the past, a company might have employed 100 people; now, perhaps only 50. That means you have to work smarter. Digitalization is essential in this regard—not only to keep up with the competition but also to address labor shortages and make processes more flexible.”
The main trend he observes is that companies are increasingly adopting integrated business operations. “Ten years ago, the focus was on transitioning from 2D to 3D design. Five years ago, it was all about ERP systems. Now, the emphasis is on integrating business processes and real-time feedback. Think of dashboards that provide immediate insights into inventories, liquidity, and delivery reliability. AI plays an increasingly significant role in this.”
Digitalzh as a Partner in Digitalization
Digitalzh supports companies in two ways: by offering expertise and by prompting entrepreneurs to think critically. “We assist with advice and guidance, largely subsidized. But perhaps more importantly, we initiate a thought process. We help entrepreneurs not only by asking the right questions but also by identifying the core of their challenges.”
A concrete example of Digitalzh’s impact is the collaboration with RoboHouse. RoboHouse, a field lab of TU Delft, provides companies with a practical environment where they can develop and test robotics solutions. “At Schilte, a furniture company, we are working on process automation. Additionally, in the aviation sector, we are assisting in developing a new concept for processing contaminated textiles on intercontinental flights. Digitalzh connects companies with the right partners and technologies.”
Challenges and Opportunities
Nevertheless, digitalization remains a challenge for many companies. “It requires a new way of thinking. Digitalization and robotization are often implemented to address aging workforce shortages, but at the same time, those very employees need to be involved in the process. Creating support within the organization is essential.”
For entrepreneurs hesitant about digitalization, Jan Willem has a clear message: “You can hardly afford not to do it. The world is changing rapidly. Certifications, legislation, AI, geopolitical developments, and energy prices all impact your operations. Digitalization helps to remain flexible and efficient in this dynamic environment.”
The Future of the Manufacturing Industry
According to Jan Willem, the Dutch manufacturing industry will increasingly focus on knowledge-intensive products and total solutions. “We will no longer engage in mass production but will develop specialized concepts with accompanying service and maintenance. This requires a different way of working, in which digitalization plays a key role.”
Digitalzh continues to commit to supporting companies in this transition. “We learn from each other and collaborate with partners such as FME and the Royal Metal Union. The future lies in cooperation and knowledge sharing.”
Start Digitalizing Today
For companies looking to start with digitalization but unsure where to begin, Digitalzh is an ideal partner. “We assist entrepreneurs without it costing them directly. But more importantly, we help them ask the right questions and take the first steps.”
Want to know what digitalization can do for your company? Schedule an intake with Jan Willem or one of our other Digitalzh connectors!