Current trend of automation and data exchange in manufacturing technologies. It includes cyber-physical systems, the Internet of things and cloud computing
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India wants manufacturing to power its next big leap from 17% to 24% of GDP, and eventually to a $30 trillion economy. But how realistic is that in a world of tariffs, fractured supply chains and geopolitical churn? In this episode, host Anirban Chowdhury talks to Rahul Jain, India head at the Boston Consulting Group, who breaks down what it will actually take. He explains why India’s large domestic market is an advantage, why indigenisation and exports must rise together, and why scale, cost competitiveness and real R&D investment will decide whether India becomes a global manufacturing force, why three-quarters of cost-cutting programmes fail, how resilience has become a core business metric, and why CEOs need to get comfortable making decisions in uncertainty rather than waiting for stability. As global alliances shift and AI reshapes business, he argues that India’s demographics, STEM talent and political stability give it a rare opening if industry and government can move with speed and discipline. Listen in:You can follow Anirban Chowdhury on his social media: X and LinkedinCheck out other interesting episodes from the host like ET in the Valley: Grant Lee, Co-Founder & CEO of Gamma, ET in the Valley: Databricks Co-founder Patrick Wendell, ET in the Valley: Replit Founder and CEO Amjad Masad, ET in the Valley: ElevenLabs Co-Founder Mati Staniszewski and much more. Catch the latest episode of ‘The Morning Brief’ on The Economic Times Online, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, JioSaavn, Amazon Music and Youtube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's impossible to ignore the tidal wave of excitement and hype surrounding Generative AI. However, at ARC Advisory Group, we consistently advise our Industrial Sector clients that success in this new era requires understanding the entire Industrial AI Toolbox, not just the newest, shiniest instrument. This ongoing Industrial AI (R)Evolution is fundamentally reshaping operations and architecture across IT, OT, ET, and Data Science domains. To cut through the noise and provide clear guidance, I've been hosting a detailed podcast series on Industrial AI with thought leaders across the ecosystem. In this context, Colin Masson, Director of Research for Industrial AI was thrilled to welcome Dustin Johnson, CTO of Seeq Corporation, back for their third conversation. Would you like to be a guest on our growing podcast?Do you have an intriguing or thought provoking topic you'd like to discuss on our podcast? Please contact Our Producer Tom Cabot at: Tcabot@Arcweb.comView all the episodes here: https://thedigitaltransformationpodcast.buzzsprout.com
On this episode of Reliability Radio, hosts Jonathan Guiney and Brendan Russ welcome Candi Robinson from IFS Ultimo to confront the biggest misconception in Enterprise Asset Management (EAM): that AI is an "easy button" that will magically fix every operational problem. With two decades of EAM experience, Candi argues that technology cannot solve a foundational problem. She reveals that many organizations are still stuck using antiquated practices, like printing work orders, while expecting to jump straight to Industry 4.0. This candid session covers: The Data Reality Check: Why 20 years of inaccurate data will shape (and potentially break) your AI-driven future. The Work Ahead: The essential steps—like implementing mobile solutions and achieving transparency—that must be completed before AI becomes useful. Ultimo's Solution: How Ultimo embeds AI into the work order process to aid technicians and enforce better data entry, driving accuracy and educating users. Single Pane of Glass: The importance of a unified platform to drive KPIs and manage compliance, especially amid changing economic and sustainability pressures. Stop debating AI and start fixing the fundamentals.
Join Jonathan Guiney and Brendon Russ on Reliability Radio as they welcome Andy Hancock from SAP to discuss the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on enterprise asset management. Andy explains how SAP is leveraging AI—from its early predictive analytics library to its new digital assistant, Joule—to fundamentally change how users interact with the system. The conversation delves into the three phases of SAP's AI strategy: a “help me” function for new users, an advanced “decision support” phase that pulls insights from multiple systems, and the future of autonomous workflows that run in the background. Andy also addresses the critical role of data quality and the importance of a well-executed change management plan. This episode offers a clear roadmap of how AI is becoming a core, mainstream feature that will simplify processes, reduce screen time, and empower maintenance teams to make more accurate decisions, quicker.
In this episode of Reliability Radio, Jennifer Gatza from Maven joins Jonathan Guiney and Brendan Russ to discuss a common problem in the Maximo® community: the "shiny object syndrome." Jennifer, a computer engineer by background, shares her powerful insight that putting technology first—before process and strategy—is a critical pitfall that leads to poor outcomes and user frustration. She details Maven's objective, disciplined methodology for guiding clients, which starts with a focus on core asset management principles and the establishment of robust governance. The conversation provides a roadmap for success: hone your fundamentals in Maximo Manage, take an incremental step with the Health module, and then strategically expand to advanced applications like Predict. This is a must-listen for anyone who wants to ensure their Maximo journey delivers sustainable value, not just a collection of cool tools.
Join Jonathan Guiney and Brendon Russ on Reliability Radio as they speak with Peter from Hexagon, a company focused on Asset Information Management (AIM). The discussion begins with a look at a fundamental challenge facing every industry: the "silver tsunami" and the loss of critical knowledge. Peter explains how Hexagon's solution bridges the siloed gap between engineering and maintenance by creating a "smart digital reality"—a digital twin of a facility. This virtual map is created using drones, scanners, and cutting-edge technology, transforming old, paper-based drawings into an explorable, video-game-like environment. Peter outlines the immense benefits of this approach: it significantly improves technician safety, boosts efficiency by providing instant access to asset information, and helps attract and retain young talent who grew up in a digital world. The conversation concludes with a look to the future, where AI will become a standard feature, offering autonomous task suggestions before humans even have to ask.
In this bonus episode, our guest is Liz Reynolds, manufacturing and workforce expert at MIT and strategic advisor to Tulip.. Fresh from Detroit's Reindustrialize (https://www.reindustrialize.com) conference, Liz and Natan share key insights on America's urgent push to bring manufacturing back home. They explore the "Spring of momentum" in reindustrialization efforts, from AI moving beyond hype to real implementation on the shop floor, and break down the massive scale challenges facing US manufacturers across critical sectors. Drawing from major industry conferences including Reindustrialize, the Hill and Valley Forum (https://www.thehillandvalleyforum.com), Industry Studies Association (https://www.industrystudies.org), and MIT's Initiative for New Manufacturing (https://inm.mit.edu), she explains strategic workforce development approaches to address the 400,000 manufacturing worker shortage and the Department of Defense's $1 trillion budget impact on industrial capacity. Reynolds sheds light on how this Spring's discussions and strategic planning around technology adoption and workforce training are beginning to take concrete shape as the real work accelerates into Fall. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip, the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast or by following the show on LinkedIn. Special Guest: Elisabeth Reynolds.
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro continues the Private Equity series with Ian Pugh, CFO at Precise TV. Ian shares his journey into private equity and reveals the realities of leading finance in a fast-paced, investor-backed business.In this episode, you'll discover:The importance of trust with investors — and how to manage bad news or crises effectivelyLessons from handling a serious fraud incident and protecting stakeholder relationshipsHow to make board packs engaging, concise, and valuable for both investors and non-execsStrategies for managing investor reporting demands alongside running the businessAdvice for CFOs entering PE-backed roles, including first 100-day priorities and long-term success factorsLinks mentioned:Ian's Linkedin Learn more about Precise TV Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Join Jonathan Guiney and Brendon Russ on Reliability Radio for a controversial debate with Tom Woginrich from IBM on "predictive maintenance vs. condition-based maintenance." Tom challenges the traditional view, defining the "predictive maintenance" of old as limited "univariate analytics" (single variables like vibration), often leading to frustration and missed failures. He then unveils the true power of multivariate analytics: high-frequency data from dozens of variables (amps, temperature, load, even time of day) analyzed by machine learning to predict problems long before they become potential failures. Tom shares a fascinating anecdote of how a simple window shade caused a multi-million dollar recall for an automotive manufacturer, a problem only uncovered through disparate data analysis. Learn how IBM Maximo's capabilities, including multivariable health scores, are building the foundation for this next-level prediction. The discussion culminates with a glimpse into the future, where AI-powered systems automatically suggest actions without human prompting. This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to move beyond guesswork and unlock the true predictive power of their asset data.
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro speaks with Andy Mellor, Fractional CFO at Summit 17 Ltd, about navigating M&A, preparing for financial events, and leading finance teams through high-growth environments.Key topics covered:Andy's career journey and transition into fractional CFO workStructuring finance teams to support rapid, acquisition-led growthManaging M&A deals end-to-end, including due diligence and integrationCommunicating effectively with sellers, stakeholders, banks, and PE firmsBuilding robust financial models and scenarios for funding strategiesPreparing businesses to be “event ready” with data, tools, and disciplineLinks mentionedAndy's LinkedinLearn more about Summit 17 Ltd Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Send us your thoughts In this episode of the CFO 4.0 Podcast, host Hannah Munro is joined by experienced CFO and executive coach Jeremy Earnshaw to explore one of the most critical – and often overlooked – phases of the CFO journey: the 60–90 day window. In this episode, we cover:How to assess and ensure data integrity before making strategic decisionsSigns of broken processes, bottlenecks, and weak control environmentsBuilding trust and alignment with your CEO, team, and peersManaging people issues and making tough but necessary team changesThe importance of cash, liquidity, and long-term visibility in planningAvoiding early mistakes and setting the tone for your CFO leadership journeyLinks mentioned: Jeremy's LinkedinLearn more about Clarendon Executive Coaching and Mentoring Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro is joined by Matt Topham, Director of Practical CFO, to explore what makes a modern CFO truly effective—from KPIs to strategic decision-making.Key topics covered:Matt's unconventional journey to CFOThe realities of working as a fractional CFO and identifying clients ready for changeHow to use KPIs like productivity, overhead rate, and LTV to CAC to guide decisionsWhy speed and imperfection often beat precision in fast-moving environmentsManaging cash, growth, and riskPractical tips for new CFOs on building meaningful KPIs and driving strategic clarityLinks mentioned: Matt's Linkedin Learn more about Practical CFO Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Send us a textAfter talking to 50+ professionals across different industries, I noticed a pattern. The people thriving with AI share three common traits: 1. **They embraced AI as a tool, not a threat**2. **They focused on developing uniquely human skills**3. **They became lifelong learners"**Connect With Kapeel Guptaor Click on the link: http://bit.ly/4jlql8sWhat You May Learn0:00 Introduction1:43 Mission Statement2:01 AI Integration across different sectors3:10 Problem / challenge6:38 Exploration / Development11:09 Climax / Key Moment13:16 Conclusion15:08 Call to ActionSupport the show
Send us your thoughtsIn this month's Finance Transformation Live host Hannah Munro explores how finance leaders can design scalable, resilient systems that adapt to change and support long-term growth.Key topics covered:The four pillars of future-proof finance architecture: data, APIs, expandability, and maintenanceWhy multi-dimensional data structures are essential for reporting, AI, and agilityHow to evaluate API strength, integration flexibility, and vendor transparencyAvoiding common pitfalls like over-customisation, poor data design, and dead-end system configurationsBuilding layered tech stacks to support FP&A, BI, automation, governance, and collaborationPlanning for continuous improvement: training, upgrades, and staying ahead of business needsLinks mentioned: Previous session: Finance Record to Report Maturity ModelConnect with Hannah MunroBuilding Out Your Finance Data Strategy Reporting Tools in Sage IntacctWhich Sage Product is Right For You Quiz!Book a discovery call Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Send us your thoughtsIn this insightful episode of the CFO 4.0 Podcast, host Hannah Munro is joined by Richard Sanders, Founder and Managing Partner at Sullivan Street Partners, for a no-holds-barred session of myth-busting in the world of private equity. This episode offers practical wisdom, experienced insights, and a refreshingly candid take on what it really means to lead in a PE-backed business. Tune in to explore:Why growth and profit aren't mutually exclusive in private equity strategyThe real expectations around budgeting and how to balance ambition with achievabilityWhat kinds of mistakes are toleratedHow equity structures work, and why understanding “good leaver vs bad leaver” clauses is essentialWhether industry experience or private equity background matters more for CFO rolesHow values, trust, and transparency drive performance in today's private equity landscapeLinks mentioned: Richard's LinkedinLearn more about Sullivan Street Partners Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
This week marks the final episode of Season 2 of Augmented Ops! Natan and Erik look back and share their biggest takeaways from conversations with CEOs, frontline engineers, and operations leaders. They unpack marketing hype vs. the current state of AI on the shop floor, the rise of citizen developers, and why “digital transformation” needs a serious rebrand. They also dive deep into the demise of traditional MES, explore the shift toward composable, platform-driven architectures, and offer predictions on how adaptability will define manufacturing success in the year of the “composable operations.” Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/).
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro speaks with Karl Lloyd, fractional CFO and founder of Lloyd Consulting Limited, about his transition from full-time finance roles to a portfolio CFO career. Karl shares practical insights from working across sectors like e-commerce, SaaS, and travel, and reflects on the realities of life as a fractional CFO.In this episode, Karl covers:The biggest differences and challenges between full-time and fractional CFO rolesBuilding effective financial models and keeping them simple, flexible, and insightfulWorking with investors and managing expectations through clear reportingLessons from multiple management buyouts and how to prepare early for due diligenceAdvice for aspiring fractional CFOs, including mindset, client management, and business developmentLinks mentioned: Karl's Linkedin Learn more about Lloyd Consulting Limted Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro chats with Karla Smith, CFO at Ogilvy UK, about her unique path to CFO and how finance operates at the heart of a creative, people-driven organisation.Key topics covered include:Karla's career journey from audit trainee to CFOHow to succeed in senior finance roles with flexible hours and build mutual trust with your organisation.The role of finance in creative industriesBuilding financial literacy across teams through internal trainingApproaching talent investment and balancing short-term results with long-term value.Tips for new CFOs on strategic planning, effective delegation, and building strong CEO partnerships.Links mentioned: Karla's LinkedinLearn more about Ogilvy Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Join Jonathan Gagne and Brendan Russ on Reliability Radio as they sit down with passionate industry experts Dave Reiber from Reliabilityweb and Rich McInnes from Net Results. This episode dives deep into the urgent issue of the skilled trades gap – a "big hole that's getting bigger." Dave and Rich reveal the motivation behind their upcoming book, designed to be a conversation for everyone in the trades, from aspiring apprentices to seasoned leaders and organizational decision-makers. Hear fascinating historical insights on the origins of trades and guilds, and how artisans have shaped our world for millennia. Beyond the challenges, the discussion celebrates the pride, craftsmanship, and artistry of tradespeople, highlighting the often-overlooked value and legacy they create. Dave shares his personal journey from an electrician at General Motors to a global business manager, emphasizing the vast opportunities a trade career can unlock. Rich challenges the notion that AI will diminish the need for skilled hands, making a compelling case for the enduring importance of those who "bend pipe or solder a joint." They explore critical questions: How do we foster aspirational goals in the trades? What does "master of the master" truly mean? And how can we bridge the perception gap between college degrees and vocational skills, showing the incredible ROI of a trade career? This conversation is a powerful call to action, reminding us that tradespeople are the unsung heroes building our future, and they need our recognition and support.
This week's guest is Bob Buhlmann (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-buhlmann-4182244/), Head of Quality Digital and Computer Strategy at AstraZeneca. Bob shares how technology has evolved over the course of his 35+ years in the pharma industry, the hurdles pharma companies often face when adopting emerging technology, and the future of quality management. He also takes a deep dive into validation, the challenges associated with validating software created by citizen developers, and AstraZeneca's innovative solution for this pressing problem in the pharma industry. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: Bob Buhlmann.
This week's guests are Ryan Infantozi (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-infantozzi-202ab723b/) of VEKA, Esmeralda Gonzalez (https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeralda-gonzalez-m/) of Stanley Black & Decker, and Cuyler Monahan (https://www.linkedin.com/in/cuylermonahan/) of Agility EMS. The three represent a new generation of frontline engineers—dedicated shop floor problem solvers applying digital technology to tackle the diverse set of challenges each of their operations face on a daily basis. The three share best practices and lessons learned on the shop floor, how manufacturers can attract the next generation of engineers and operators, and their take on the pros and cons of a citizen development approach to digital transformation. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guests: Cuyler Monahan, Esmeralda Gonzalez, and Ryan Infantozzi.
This week's guest is Jim Fox (https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-s-fox/), SVP of Americas Supply Operations at AstraZeneca. Jim explains how digital manufacturing in pharma has evolved over his nearly 3 decades in the industry, from basic automation and data collection to advanced predictive modeling and integrated digital ecosystems—and why having humans in-the-loop continues to be critical despite these advancements in autonomy. He also shares his perspective on building trust in emerging technology, the continued importance of lean principles, and the tension between regulation and speed to market. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: Jim Fox.
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of Financial Transformation Live, Neil Lynchehaun, Head of Transformation and Delivery at itas, takes you through a practical, experience-driven guide to understanding and improving the Purchase-to-Pay (P2P) process.You'll discover:Why we use maturity models and how they can inspire achievable steps forward.How to evaluate the impact of process improvements across:The full scope of the P2P process, including:Master data creation and maintenanceThe 5 maturity levels from basic transaction recording to strategic process leverage.Real-world characteristics and examples of each maturity stage.Insights into practical tools and enablers, including supplier portals, OCR, and dynamic discounting.Strategic tips for driving better supplier relationships, optimising working capital, and protecting your financial operations.Links mentioned:Previous session: Improving the Quote-to-Cash ProcessConnect with Hannah MunroConnect with Neil LynchehaunWhich Sage Product is Right For You Quiz!Book a discovery call Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
This week's guest is Joel Fidalgo (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-fidalgo-7b6347121/), CIO of NextPharma. Joel shares how NextPharma is bridging IT and operations to lead digital transformation across a decentralized CDMO network, and taking a modular, app-based approach to MES and eBR. He also explores the changing role of the CIO in driving innovation on the shop floor, the importance of cross-functional collaboration, and the challenges of scaling standardized solutions across diverse sites each of which have their own unique requirements. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: Joel Fidalgo.
Send us your thoughtsThis episode kicks off our new CFO 4.0 series exploring the first 100 days in a CFO role. Host Hannah Munro is joined by experienced CFO and coach Jeremy Earnshaw, who shares practical, battle-tested guidance on navigating the critical first 30 days in a new CFO position. Key topics coveredMaking a strong first impression and shifting from finance specialist to strategic leaderWhy liquidity is non-negotiable and how to validate cash flow assumptions earlyHow to uncover hidden issues in the balance sheet and financial controlsEngaging with stakeholders and building credibility across the businessLeading your team with clarity, consistency and high expectationsCommon missteps new CFOs make and how to avoid themLinks mentioned:Jeremy's LinkedinLearn more about Clarendon Executive Coaching and Mentoring Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Send us your thoughtsIn this inspiring and practical episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro welcomes back Susana Serrano-Davey—career mentor, leadership trainer, and author of the newly released Confidence is Overrated. Drawing from her journey from CFO to mentor and author, Susana shares powerful insights on how senior finance leaders can develop the soft skills essential for leadership success.In this episode, Hannah and Susana explore:Why confidence is often misunderstood—and how to support yourself through self-doubtHow to spot unhelpful behaviours that undermine your confidencePhysical signs of stress and how to manage them in high-pressure environmentsWhy active listening is a critical skill for CFOs and how to improve itThe importance of finding your voice and knowing which battles to pickA framework for having productive, high-stakes conversations at workLetting go of control to become more influential in leadership Links mentioned: Susana's LinkedinDiscover Susana's work hereRead Susanna's new book; Self-Confidence Is Overrated Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
What's the first step in building a smart, reliable operation? Hint: It's not AI. In this episode of Reliability Radio, we're joined by Jeff Kinard from Prometheus Group, who drops hard-earned wisdom on what actually moves the needle. From baseline data to data governance and building trust between tech and people—it's all about doing the blocking and tackling before you throw deep.
This week, Natan Linder (https://www.linkedin.com/in/linder/), Co-Founder and CEO of Tulip (https://tulip.co/) sits down with Madilynn Castillo (https://www.linkedin.com/in/madilynncastillo/), Tulip's CMO for a recap of their experiences at this year's Hannover Messe—the world's largest industrial trade fair. They explore the overwhelming AI hype at the fair, the confusion it creates for manufacturers, and the persistent gap between marketing and real operational impact when it comes to these shiny new tools. Plus, an overview of the latest developments from Tulip that debuted at the show. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: Madilynn Castillo.
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro speaks with Gemma Doran, CFO at Savea Technology Ltd, about the realities of leading finance in high-growth SMEs. From her unexpected start in journalism to managing multi-million-pound fundraises, Gemma reflects on what it takes to thrive as a CFO in fast-moving environments, how to balance optimism with realism in forecasting, and why adaptability and clarity are vital when raising capital.In this episode, Gemma discussesHer career journey from politics and journalism to finance leadershipThe pros and cons of different funding types, including SAFE and ASAWhy micro-level cashflow management is essential in SMEsThe true cost and complexity of fundraising for growthForecasting with flexibility in uncertain economic climatesThe importance of team development, communication and stakeholder buy-inLinks mentionedGemma's Linkedin Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
This week, we're at Hannover Messe, the world's largest industrial trade show. We're foregoing our usual episode this week, but, we'll be recording our annual on-site episode at the show later this week covering the state of the industry, analyzing the trends we're seeing, and cutting through the hype to figure out which of the latest technologies on display here at Hannover will have real impact on the shop floor. We'll be back to our regularly scheduled programming next Wednesday. Stay tuned! Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/).
In this episode, manufacturing experts Suzy Teele, Jeff Winter, and Marco Micheletti discuss the evolution of manufacturing and the role of technology in shaping the future factories. They highlight critical issues such as workforce aging, the resurgence of US manufacturing, and the imperative to attract young talent into the industry. The conversation emphasizes the importance of integrating automation and AI, the need for a skilled workforce, and the innovative approaches necessary for sustainable growth in manufacturing.
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of Financial Transformation Live, Hannah Munro dives into the critical steps for effective process mapping and how it can drive successful financial transformation. Discover practical insights on simplifying complexity and ensuring your processes are future-ready.Key takeaways include:The importance of involving sales, CRM, and IT leadership in process evaluations.How to identify, map, and validate use cases before redesigning processes.Strategies to prioritise high-impact areas and manage process exceptions.Why future-proofing your processes is essential for growth and scalability.Best practices for facilitating and documenting process mapping sessions.Tools for effective digital documentation and why real-time collaboration matters.Links mentioned:March FTL: Financial Transformation Live: Improving the Quote-to-Cash ProcessRevisit previous Financial Transformation Live sessions Getting started with mapping out your finance processesWhy Salesforce Users Love Sage Intacct | On-Demand WebinarThe Getting Started Guide: Streamlining your Finance Processes Automate your finance processes with Sage Intacct | On-Demand WebinarCFO 4.0 Monthly BriefingFinancial Transformation Live Feedback survey Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
This week's guest is Audrey Van de Castle (https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrey-van-de-castle/), Senior Director of Operational Excellence Technology at Stanley Black & Decker. Audrey breaks down the challenges of scaling digital initiatives across 100+ manufacturing sites, how to balance governance with citizen development, and the need to move past the buzzwords and invest in technology that can make a difference on the shop floor today. She also shares insights into her unconventional career path from running a makerspace to becoming a digital transformation leader, best practices for working with IT, and her passion for building fighting robots (https://youtu.be/4fbwtajq5XA). Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: Audrey Van de Castle.
This week's guest is Erik Udstuen (https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-udstuen-00000), Co-founder and CEO of TwinThread. Erik shares insights from his 30+ years in industrial software, discussing how AI and digital twins are transforming manufacturing by standardizing data, optimizing operations, and driving operational excellence. He also dives into the challenges of industrial data standards, the importance of empowering engineers with no-code/low-code tools, and why AI must go beyond insights to deliver real-time, actionable recommendations on the shop floor. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: Erik Udstuen.
This week's guest is Nicolette Naya (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolettenaya/), Senior MES Engineer at a leading luxury jewelry manufacturer. Nicolette shares insights into how she helped digitize centuries-old manufacturing processes, the challenges of introducing technology to the shop floor, and the importance of a structured governance model to successful digital transformation. She also explores the role of citizen developers, sheds light on her own career path from intern to digital transformation leader, and shares advice for others looking to follow in her footsteps. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: Nicolette Naya.
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro speaks with Stuart Mellis, CFO of Optalysis, about his journey to CFO, the challenges of scaling deep tech startups, and navigating fundraising, investor relations, and financial planning in an emerging market.Key topics covered:Private equity vs venture capital – key differences in expectations and investment approachesManaging investor relationships – balancing trust, communication, and transparencyFundraising in deep tech – navigating challenges and pitching to the right investorsFinancial planning & budgeting – setting realistic growth targets in an emerging marketAdvice for new CFOs – the importance of coaching, board management, and asking the right questionsLinks mentioned:Stuart's Linkedin Learn more about Optalysis Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
This week's guest is ZJ van de Weg (https://www.linkedin.com/in/zegerjan/), CEO of FlowFuse. ZJ shares his journey from an intern at GitLab to now leading FlowFuse, how open-source technology is transforming industrial operations, and why Node-RED has become the go-to platform for low-code manufacturing connectivity. He also takes a deep dive into the challenges of scaling open source solutions in enterprise environments, the value of an ‘open-core' business model, and the future of IT/OT collaboration. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: ZJ van de Weg.
Send us your thoughtsIn this third instalment of the Mastering M&A series, Hannah Munro is joined by Jeremy Earnshaw, Founding Director of Clarendon and experienced CFO, to delve into the complexities of business disposals. Key topics discussed:The difference between being sought out by a buyer vs proactively seeking a sale.Essential preparations for making your business attractive to potential acquirersThe critical role of the CFO in managing the disposal process and overseeing data flow.The importance of establishing good buyer relationships Deal structures: earn-outs, share exchanges, and the implications for sellers.Warranties, indemnities, and legal considerations The cultural and operational implications of a sale for the management team and employees. Links mentioned:Jeremy's LinkedinLearn more about Clarendon Executive Coaching and Mentoring Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
This week's guest is Vijay Chinnasami (https://www.linkedin.com/in/vijayan-chinnasami-6595a931/), former COO of Ultra Clean Technology. Vijay shares an inside look into how electronics supply chains and manufacturing practices have evolved over his 35+ year career, the rise of EMS and ODM business models, and how the semiconductor industry is shifting in response to global pressures. The discussion also explores best practices for building a culture of continuous improvement, balancing humans with automation, and adapting management approaches to local cultures. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: Vijay Chinnasami.
This week's guest is John Harrington (https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-harrington-142906a/), co-founder and Chief Product Officer of HighByte. John shares how his experiences working on Kepware at PTC led him to co-found HighByte, why Industry 4.0 requires a fundamentally different approach to interoperability, and the importance of contextualizing data in manufacturing. He also breaks down the real value that a Unified Namespace (UNS) approach can bring, whether frameworks like ISA-95 are still relevant, and the age-old OPC vs MQTT debate. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: John Harrington.
This week's guest is Kence Anderson (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kence), CEO of Composabl. Kence and Natan explore the role of AI agents in industrial processes, how manufacturers are using them to solve complex problems like scheduling or machine control, and the challenges of building startups in the manufacturing space. Kence also lays out how his concept of machine teaching differs from traditional machine learning techniques, and why he believes in taking a composable approach to building solutions for problems on the shop floor. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: Kence Anderson.
This week's guest is Fabio Violante (https://www.linkedin.com/in/fabioviolante), CEO of Arduino. Fabio and Natan explore the importance of open source technology in manufacturing and how the democratization of embedded systems development is reshaping the industry. Fabio also shares the history of Arduino, and how he led the charge to evolve their approach from focusing purely on makers and hobbyists, to supporting enterprise grade applications with a new line of hardware. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: Fabio Violante.
Tom welcomes retired naval officer Matt Riley to the show. Matt shares his background in economics and global affairs and expresses his interest in the developing BRICS system. They discuss the BRICS alliance's diplomacy, economic cooperation, and representation goals. Matt explains nBRIDGE, a decentralized settlement system, with gold acting as a stable store of value for settling trade imbalances. Matt explains the use of gold in net settlement currencies and direct payment methods for energy transactions between BRICS Nations. The bilateral central bank and exchange agreements create a decentralized system, with Dubai being the second-largest gold trading hub due to its diplomatic neutrality. Matt discusses the potential implications of the BRICS currency system on oil, gold, and silver. He suggests a more stable energy pricing structure could benefit all parties. Maintaining stability in energy prices is crucial for everyone's benefit. The current system is serving BRICS nations by isolating them from the serious debt problems associated with the US dollar-based system. Lastly Matt encourages listeners to shift focus from financial assets to community and social capital for true wealth and happiness. He can be found on X and frequently appears on Chris's channel Arcadia Economics. Time Stamp References:0:00 - Introduction0:34 - BRICS & Payment Systems4:15 - Brief History of BRICS10:22 - nBRIDGE Exchange System13:43 - Gold's Settlement Role15:08 - Basket Structure?16:41 - Volume of Use?18:32 - Exchange Dubai vs. London20:32 - BRICS Summit Russia27:43 - Playing Both Sides?31:24 - PMs & The Road Ahead35:54 - Silver Role & Industry40:07 - Oil & Dollar Hegemony46:14 - Expectations for BRICS48:40 - Bypassing Sanctions50:50 - Change Mindset & Focus53:15 - Wrap Up Talking Points From This Episode The BRICS alliance explores decentralized digital currency exchange systems like nBRIDGE for economic cooperation and diplomacy. Matt discusses gold's role in net settlement currencies and stable energy pricing within the BRICS system. Matt highlights potential benefits of the BRICS currency system, such as stability in energy pricing and reduced reliance on US dollar. Guest Linkshttps://x.com/efbullion Matt Riley is a follower of Jesus, Husband, Father, and retired Naval Officer. He has extensive experience in international security, as well as geopolitical and economic analysis.
This week's guest is Kevin Kidd (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-kidd-5ab572113/), Director of Software and Analytics at RFK Racing. While advanced manufacturing might not be the first thought that comes to mind when you hear the word NASCAR, Kevin sheds light on the complex processes and digital tools that go into building high performance race cars. He also explains how citizen development helped the team go from running on Excel to building the custom software they need, as well as the key role that data governance and advanced analytics play in putting a car that's ready to win out on the track every week. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: Kevin Kidd.
This week's guest is Marc Nash (https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcnash1/), SVP of Operations and R&D at Outset Medical. In an industry dominated by legacy players, Marc explains how Outset set out to redefine what is possible when it comes to patient health, and how they leveraged an equally disruptive approach to manufacturing to give them a competitive edge. He also explains how they are taking advantage of IoT to improve their products even after they have been shipped, the evolution of lean manufacturing in the digital age, and the value of composability in developing next-gen production systems. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: Marc Nash.
Agile in Hardware: Agile Transformation in a Hardware Organization, Wärtsilä Case Study with Henna Torkkola nd Maarit Laanti In this Agile in Hardware episode, Henna Torkkola and Maarit Laanti share the pioneering journey of integrating Agile practices into Wärtsilä's Marine R&D, particularly within the ambitious New Product Development (NPD) program for advanced engine technology. From fostering collaboration across the value stream to embracing simulation and hybrid Agile approaches, they offer insights into how Agile has reshaped R&D processes. Henna and Maarit explain how bringing Agile to hardware isn't about imposing frameworks but adopting a collaborative, flexible mindset that inspires productivity and innovation across teams. Starting with a Vision for Agile in Product Development Henna and Maarit delve into the origins of Wärtsilä's Agile journey, recounting how the NPD program, initiated in 2018, was envisioned to deliver faster releases, co-create with stakeholders, and establish a more satisfying work culture for program teams. Moving beyond traditional project stages, the company embraced Agile methods to accommodate real-time adjustments and maintain a competitive edge. “Agile success in hardware starts when you focus on the values behind the practices—not just calling it Agile.” Expanding the Agile Mindset Across the Value Stream Originally designed as an R&D initiative, the program expanded to engage the entire value stream, including sourcing and manufacturing. Henna explains how cross-departmental collaboration was achieved through inclusive events and ceremonies, bringing in diverse stakeholders from the start. This broad integration marked a shift from isolated R&D to a holistic approach involving the entire value chain, creating a product developed with inputs from every angle. “Cross-functional collaboration is crucial; bring everyone to the table early and celebrate wins together.” Integrating Manufacturing for a Smooth NPD Transition To bridge the gap between R&D and manufacturing, the team included design-for-manufacturing experts from the outset, ensuring seamless transitions and early feedback. The addition of quick real-world testing strategies like using a single-cylinder prototype and rolling-wave planning enabled the NPD program to adapt plans incrementally while collecting feedback earlier in the process compared to previous programs. “Invite manufacturing to R&D's early stages—you'll tackle issues before they escalate.” Blending Traditional and Agile Models for Hardware Innovation The team adopted a hybrid model that merges Agile's flexibility with traditional gate-check models, evolving over time as teams moved away from rigid milestones. By focusing on early feedback and iterative adjustments, they avoided process bottlenecks and fostered a product-centric mindset. “Don't get stuck on milestones; prioritize feedback loops to keep product goals aligned with real-world needs.” Simulation and Small-Scale Testing: Essential Tools for Fast Feedback Both simulation and small-scale testing proved essential to the program's agility, facilitating rapid feedback and enabling team alignment. With testing and simulation experts working alongside designers, the process quickly highlighted practical improvements, creating a more effective pathway from R&D concepts to production-ready components. “Invest in simulations—they give you insights much faster, aligning design with manufacturing realities.” Synchronization and Common Planning: Enabling Transparency and Efficiency Henna and Maarit underscore the benefits of synchronization and common planning cadences across the R&D teams, enhancing transparency and team spirit. These synchronizations empowered teams to independently manage priorities while aligning with organizational goals, creating an ecosystem where collaboration and autonomy coexist. “A synchronized cadence empowers teams, letting them take charge of plans within a unified vision.” Pivoting to Sustainable Fuel: Adapting Agile to Changing Requirements As the market focus shifted towards sustainability, the NPD program swiftly integrated sustainable fuels like ammonia into development. Thanks to the Agile-inspired adaptability, the program adjusted its trajectory, positioning Wärtsilä to lead in environmentally conscious engine development with a product-first mindset that welcomed change. “With Agile, your process adapts to change—making room for innovations like sustainable fuel in real-time.” Resources for Agile Enthusiasts in Hardware and Product Development For listeners eager to dive deeper, Henna and Maarit recommend: Flexible Product Development: Agile Hardware Development to Liberate Innovation by Preston Smith White papers on Agile in hardware, particularly those available on WikiAgile About Henna Torkkola and Maarit Laanti Henna Torkkola is an Agile coach at Wärtsilä's Marine R&D, focusing on Future Fuels and New Product Development. With expertise in banking and Agile transformations, she holds a Master's in Human Resource Management and is passionate about the cultural impact of Agile. You can link with Henna Torkkola on LinkedIn. Maarit Laanti, a pioneering Agile coach and co-founder of WikiAgile, is the author of the first PhD on Agile in a scaled environment. She has led transformative Agile initiatives at Nokia and contributed to the SAFe framework. A global authority on Lean and Agile, she is recognized for advancing Agile scaling in hardware. You can link with Maarit Laanti on LinkedIn.
We talk about technology adoption within the manufacturing industry as if it's a magic elixir. With the right digitization effort and the right insights platform, we say that manufacturers can lower their cost, decrease design errors, speed time to market, maybe even get CO2 under control. But is that true? Or is it all too good to be true? My guest today helps manufacturers throughout Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and India through their digitization efforts and realizing the promise of Industry 4.o. Paul Haimes is the VP of EMEAI Solutions Consulting at PTC. And he's here today to talk to us about the promises of Industry 4.0 and whether or not they really are too good to be true.
This week, Natan Linder (https://www.linkedin.com/in/linder/), Co-Founder and CEO of Tulip (https://tulip.co/) sits down with Tulip CMO Madilynn Castillo (https://www.linkedin.com/in/madilynncastillo/) to reflect on the second annual Operations Calling conference and what it means for the future of frontline operations. Natan and Madi discuss what makes Operations Calling more than just another user conference, the importance of authenticity, and building a community around frontline operations. They also explain what it takes to build an operations-first ecosystem, how the industry is evolving, and how they're planning next year's Operations Calling. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: Madilynn Castillo.
This week's guest is Daniele Iacovelli (https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniele-iacovelli-8684a9b2/), VP, Global Head of Digital, Analytics (AI) & Operational Excellence at Roche. Although regulated industries like pharmaceutical manufacturing can be slow to digitally transform their manufacturing operations, Daniele lays out how changing trends in the industry have led Roche to architect a new digital production system, with a focus on a composable, future-proof architecture. He also lays out how rapid solution development enabled by new software platforms and a citizen developer approach is enabling people across the company to solve their own problems, while also laying the groundwork for rethinking the traditional software validation approach that dominates regulated industries. Plus, what the role of GenAI should be in a GxP environment, and more. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: Daniele Iacovelli.
This week's guest is Rick Bullotta (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickbullotta/), longtime veteran of the industrial software space and co-founder of Lighthammer and Thingworx. Rick and Natan explore the history of MES solutions, how Frontline Operations Platforms are democratizing the development of industrial software, and what this means for the future architecture of the manufacturing tech stack. They also break down the hype vs. reality in industrial AI, and discuss which use cases continue to require a human-in-the-loop. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: Rick Bullotta.