Digital dashboards provide a real-time visual representation of key performance indicators to identify areas for performance improvements.
There are many different types of dashboards. Some track very specific business functions such as finance, operations, sales or human resources. Others allow you to link together the performance of activities across the entire organization.
This page focuses on manufacturing dashboards that show metrics or key performance indicators (KPIs) related to efficiency on the shop floor, such as machine performance and down time, production status, and employee activity.
Digital dashboards have a promising future given the rise of the industrial Internet of things (IIoT). There is a widespread deployment of industrial devices (or “things”) embedded with smart technology, such as sensors, gauges or trackers, that can transfer data over the Internet. These devices can automatically sense, collect and display real-time data on digital dashboards. The process is revolutionizing how manufacturers use data to understand their operations and make smarter decisions.
How do digital dashboards help?
Dashboards provide a simple way to track KPIs and make informed decisions. In a manufacturing context, they are particularly useful to:
- provide real-time data visibility to maximize plant utilization
- monitor, document and report production performance
- alert key personnel of situations that require their immediate attention
- detect and analyze root causes for unplanned downtime and rejects
- eliminate error-prone manual data collection
- improve the efficiency of manufacturing operations
How do digital dashboard work?
Manufacturing digital dashboards automatically monitor, report and analyze operational metrics such as machine states and production output versus targets. Visually rich, interactive displays report the results that will assist in identifying hidden waste and opportunities for improvement.
In addition, many dashboards can be configured to let you set up role-based or user-driven permissions to ensure that employees only access the information you want them to see. With access to the right data, employees will be able to proactively participate in problem solving and identify opportunities to contribute to the company’s bottom line.
Manufacturing digital dashboards
If you are looking for a manufacturing dashboard, you may want to consider the following.
Revised July 2020
Ekhosoft
Real-Time Information Data Collection Digitizing Documentation DownTime Tracking Standard KPI Alerts / Notifications Action Plan Multi Measure Types Notes Entry
Ekhosoft offers a modular application solution that uses real-time data to help manufacturers improve performance. Unlike other solutions that just detect, record and communicate operational data, Ekhosoft allows you to generate actionable intelligence. Thanks to the system’s modular approach and the intuitive web-based editor, you can easily customize their own user interfaces and dashboards. Ekhosoft is a Canadian company based in Brossard, Quebec.
Merlin
Real-Time Information Data Collection Digitizing Documentation DownTime Tracking Standard KPI Alerts / Notifications Action Plan Multi Measure Types Notes Entry
Merlin is Memex’s award-winning software suite and connectivity products. Designed to connect with every machine on the factory floor, Merlin monitors various signals and displays on a dynamic configurable dashboard the real-time status of production on your machines. Your staff can then quickly make the decisions that would improve your equipment’s utilization rate. The company is headquartered in Burlington, Ontario.
RtDuet
Real-Time Information Data Collection Digitizing Documentation DownTime Tracking Standard KPI Alerts / Notifications Action Plan Multi Measure Types Notes Entry
RtDuet is a real-time dashboard designed to increase productivity through asset management, automated KPI reporting, equipment monitoring, and downtime tracking. Designed by New-Brunswick-based RtTech Software, the solution detects and alerts root causes for downtime and bottlenecks in industrial facilities like manufacturing and power generation plants. RtDuet is available on-premise or as a cloud-based version on Microsoft Azure.
ShiftWorx
Real-Time Information Data Collection Digitizing Documentation DownTime Tracking Standard KPI Alerts / Notifications Action Plan Multi Measure Types Notes Entry
ShiftWorx is a cloud-based product suite by FreePoint Technologies Inc. that empowers manufacturers to monitor, analyze and visualize machine activity and downtime on the shop floor. Easily accessible through any web browser, ShiftWorx enables you to track variables such as jobs, operators and scrap. This information leads to deeper insights and better decisions to reduce machine downtime and other inefficiencies. FreePoint is a Canadian company headquartered in London, Ontario.
Shoplogix
Real-Time Information Data Collection Digitizing Documentation DownTime Tracking Standard KPI Alerts / Notifications Action Plan Multi Measure Types Notes Entry
Shoplogix provides a cloud-based software platform that tracks, reports and analyzes production performance in real time. The results are then displayed visually to help shop operators and managers quickly spot machine and staff inefficiencies, and proactively address issues before they become problems. Based in Ontario, Shoplogix serves the needs of discriminating manufacturers globally.
Smart Attend PRO
Real-Time Information Data Collection Digitizing Documentation DownTime Tracking Standard KPI Alerts / Notifications Action Plan Multi Measure Types Notes Entry
Smart Attend PRO comes as a kit with all the necessary hardware and software in one package. Developed by a company based in Ontario, the SmartAttend dashboard colour codes machine statuses.
Worximity Technology
Real-Time Information Data Collection Digitizing Documentation DownTime Tracking Standard KPI Alerts / Notifications Action Plan Multi Measure Types Notes Entry
Worximity Technology offers connectivity and real-time monitoring technologies to increase manufacturers’ performance. The Montreal-based company has developed TileConnect smart sensors to connect and collect data from any type of equipment or machines. The data collected is automatically sent to the TileBoard dashboard that can be viewed on any iOS device, thus enabling users to view KPIs in real-time and react quickly.
When assessing which solution is best for your organization, there are many factors to consider. BDC can help you develop an effective strategy and find technology solutions and services that are best suited to meet your business needs.
This table lists applications alphabetically and isn’t exhaustive. Hyperlinks to external sites do not constitute endorsement by BDC of those websites or any information, opinions, products or services expressed or described on them.
Furthermore, the list is only a starting point. When assessing which solution is best for your organization, you will probably consider many other factors.
BDC will review and edit this list regularly. If you are a vendor and would like us to consider adding your solution, please contact us.
