In today's rapidly advancing digital era, technology has played a pivotal role in transforming traditional industries across the globe. From manufacturing, retail and forestry to healthcare and logistics, various sectors have experienced significant shifts due to technological advancements. The integration of technology into these industries has not only increased efficiency and productivity but has also revolutionized business models, customer experiences, and overall industry landscapes.
The Impact of Automation on traditional industries
One of the prominent ways technology has transformed traditional industries is through automation. Automation has enabled companies to streamline processes, reduce human error, and increase production capacity. In manufacturing, for instance, the introduction of automation and robotics has revolutionized the assembly line, allowing for higher precision and speed in production. This has resulted in increased productivity and cost savings for businesses while improving product quality and consistency. Manufacturers of all sizes can benefit from digitizing and automating manual labour in their processes, and Thorgate has had great success with helping such companies, e.g. PMC.
The rise of e-commerce has disrupted the retail sector, providing consumers the convenience of shopping from the comfort of their homes. Traditional brick-and-mortar stores have had to adapt by establishing an online presence, creating omnichannel strategies, and leveraging data analytics to personalize customer experiences. Furthermore, integrating technology has opened up new avenues for direct-to-consumer models through products like Cleveron Click and Collect Solutions, allowing businesses to reach customers more efficiently. Among others, Throgate has helped the largest Estonian grocery retailer Coop to benefit from these trends.
Real-Time Tracking and Monitoring Systems in Logistics
Digitalization has significantly benefited forestry by enhancing forest management and planning. It enables accurate mapping, monitoring, and analysis of forest resources, aiding in sustainable harvesting and conservation efforts. Companies like Stora Enso have understood and embraced digitalising the value chain. Digitalization optimizes the forestry supply chain, promoting transparency, traceability, and responsible sourcing of wood products. Digital technologies facilitate real-time forest monitoring and data-driven decision-making, leading to informed decision-making for profitable and sustainable forest management.
Through digital platforms, automation, and advanced analytics, logistics processes such as inventory management, transportation, and warehousing have become more streamlined and cost-effective. Real-time tracking and monitoring systems, such as what Eliko provides, reduce delays, increase safety and efficiency and improve customer satisfaction.
Additionally, digitalization provides valuable insights through data analysis, enabling logistics providers to optimize routes, improve resource allocation, and make informed decisions to meet changing customer demands. Thorgate’s spin-off Waybiller is an efficient tool for logistics companies to finish their work faster and more organised. Seamless transport order tracking, dead simple reporting and visibility into the job done all in a matter of minutes and the results are exceptional: Eesti Killustik is the first company in Estonia to have fully digitalised data transmission in quarries, reducing a significant amount of labour costs – estimated 800MHRS/month – and time spent on the manually handled loading process. With the function now viewable in real-time, they can easily share information with all partners. Moreover, the whole process is contactless.
Reducing Medical Errors: How Digitalization Improves Patient Safety
Digital technologies have significantly impacted the healthcare industry, especially with the pandemic pushing things forward. Electronic health records (EHRs) have replaced traditional paper-based systems, enhancing the efficiency of patient data management, facilitating communication between healthcare providers, and reducing medical errors. Telemedicine has gained momentum, enabling patients to consult with healthcare professionals remotely, thus improving access to medical services, especially in rural areas. The development of medical devices and wearables has further empowered individuals to monitor their health conditions, leading to proactive and preventive healthcare practices. Also, drug discovery stakeholders (like Healx) are exploring ways to reap AI's benefits to drastically diminish the needed R&D time.
In conclusion, technology has been a driving force in transforming traditional industries. Automation, digital platforms, and innovative technologies have revolutionized processes, improved efficiency, and enhanced customer experiences. Technology has disrupted existing business models from manufacturing and retail to healthcare and logistics and paved the way for new opportunities. As technology advances, traditional industries must adapt and embrace these changes to stay competitive in an increasingly digital world.
In this series of blog posts, we will dive into specific traditional industries that are being transformed by digitalization. Stay tuned for the next parts!
Thorgate can help you reap the benefits of digitalization. If you want to discuss your digitalisation needs, write to laura.karindi@thorgate.eu
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