Katz, Sapper & Miller has released the findings of its annual survey of Indiana manufacturers. Co-sponsored by Indiana University's Kelley School of Business, Conexus Indiana and the Indiana Manufacturers Association, the yearly survey gathers information on the state's manufacturing enterprises and the overall health of the sector. 

This year's outlook is less optimistic than 2014: 38 percent of manufacturers listed their financial performance as "healthy" while 27 percent responded with "challenged." However, there are many opportunities for Hoosier manufacturers to continue to improve. The executive summary highlights the need to continue investing in advanced technologies. 

Modernization
The report finds that Indiana manufacturers have two main priorities for modernization: finding and developing technically-skilled workers, and investing in more advanced facilities and information technology systems. As the manufacturing industry modernizes, it's increasingly more important to hire talent with advanced technical skills, to use new information systems and adopt advanced management philosophies. Respondents highlighted the need for increased automation to reduce human error, trim waste from the workflow and boost productivity — in essence, working smarter instead of harder. 

Focus on quality
The survey notes that the majority of enterprises believe it's most important to concentrate on providing superior quality products and service, rather than lower prices. Added Jason Patch, Katz, Sapper & Miller's Manufacturing & Distribution Services Group chair, "Indiana can't just be the lowest-cost state — we have to deliver higher value in terms of workers, supply chain capabilities and more."

The right manufacturing software is important, because it can implement industry best practices to limit waste and improve both product quality and order fulfillment. 

Accent Software, Inc. supports Indiana manufacturers with manufacturing software systems that streamline processes, facilitate automation and boost productivity. Based in Indianapolis, Accent understands the challenges of Indiana's manufacturing sector and can set up an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system that will promote efficiency and success.