The importance of real time data is crucial in the manufacturing industry, as any discrepancy could set off a chain reaction that could lead to disastrous consequences. To prevent this, data must be properly managed and passed along quickly and efficiently to the appropriate party. However, even that may not be enough as work tends to pile up.

Materials and data have to be efficiently managed in order to ensure they don't run out and that organizations get the most out of them. In a sense, the same goes for people. By scheduling certain actions along the supply chain and sharing that information in real-time, manufacturers can alleviate a number of risks. Keeping everyone on the same page will go a long way toward generating an efficient machine of an organization, which in turn boosts everyone's productivity and increases profitability.

This will become even more pertinent going forward. According to a forecast from the Manufacturers Alliance for Productivity, industrial productivity will increase 2.2 percent this year. This represents a bump from the 2 percent experienced in 2012. Moreover, the number is expected to continue to climb as it is currently projected at 3.6 percent in 2014. 

Daniel Meckstroth, the organization's chief economist, talked about these numbers in a recent statement.

"Despite some austerity measures, there are several reasons to be optimistic about continued economic growth in 2013 and 2014," Meckstroth said.

This is certain to be a concern in Indiana as the industry continues to grow in that area. Scheduling will remain a high priority, whether it's employee hours, manufacturing tasks or deliveries, so finding the right technology to complement this is crucial. An Indiana business management software systems provider will allow manufacturers in the area to obtain the solutions needed for all of their needs.