5 Must Haves in Your Digital Twin Development Partner for Smart Manufacturing
Recently, Mr. John Vickers of NASA and Dr. Michael Grieves, famously called the father of digital twin, engaged in a conversation about the future of the digital twin technology. This is a significant development that smart manufacturers can't afford to ignore. Digital twins have already revolutionized smart manufacturing by enabling the creation of virtual replicas of physical assets for real-time analysis and optimization. However, the success of implementing digital twins often hinges on choosing the right development partner. In this blog post, we will guide you through the five key considerations to keep in mind when selecting a digital twin development partner for your smart manufacturing needs.
1. Data management capabilities
The necessity of robust data handling
Your ideal partner should excel at consolidating data from various sensors, devices, and instruments. Efficient and secure management of large volumes of real-time data is essential for any digital twin. Therefore, it's crucial to choose a partner with proven capabilities in this area.
Governance and integration
Data governance ensures the reliability and compliance of the data used, conforming to industry standards. A proficient partner skilled in data integration, storage, and analysis can provide a more cohesive and effective digital twin solution.
2. Expertise in Digital Twin development
Importance of a strong track record
When it comes to digital twin development, experience is invaluable. A partner with a proven track record in successful projects will instil confidence and ensure that your investment yields the desired results.
Technological proficiency
Digital twin technology is complex and ever evolving. Your partner should not only understand the current landscape but also be agile enough to adapt to new advancements. This proficiency ensures that your digital twin solution remains relevant and effective for at least a decade.
Multi-domain expertise
Digital twin development is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. It requires expertise in various domains and technologies like modeling, simulation, data integration, IoT, ML-AI, Data Analytics, Cloud, and Mobility. A partner with multi-domain expertise can offer a more holistic and effective solution.
3. Industry-specific knowledge
The value of relevant experience
Smart device, instrument, and machine manufacturing companies have unique challenges and requirements. A partner with experience in your specific industry will have a better understanding of these nuances, making them more equipped to develop a digital twin that aligns with your needs.
Checking if the potential partner has worked with your industry peers is a good indicator of your partner’s trustworthiness and technical proficiency. Look for a partner who has awards and certifications from reputable technology organizations or partnerships with your industry counterparts.
Understanding sector-specific challenges and alignment with business goals
Whether it's compliance issues, operational intricacies, or specific performance metrics, your partner should be well-acquainted with the challenges unique to your sector and business. An industry-specific partner can tailor the digital twin to meet not just your technical requirements but also your broader business objectives, such as reducing downtime or improving product quality.
4. Scalability and future-proofing
Importance of growth compatibility
As your business grows, your digital twin solution should be able to scale accordingly. A scalable solution can adapt to increased data volumes, more complex simulations, and additional integrations.
Staying ahead with technological evolution
The tech landscape is constantly evolving. Your partner should be forward-thinking, staying abreast of emerging technologies to ensure that your digital twin solution is future-proof. An excellent example of a forward-thinking partner is Saviant with their unique R&D initiative called S-labs. In this innovative environment, Saviant develops sample technology POCs (Proofs of Concept) by jointly investing with their customers. This focus on innovation allows them to stay ahead of the curve in technological advancements, making them an ideal partner for any organization looking to future-proof their digital twin solutions.
5. Collaborative approach
The role of open communication
A successful digital twin project is built on a foundation of open communication. Choose a partner willing to work closely with your team, one who understands your vision and can translate it into a functional digital twin. Being transparent is the key to a successful collaboration.
The takeaway: How to choose the best Digital Twin Partner
Choosing the right digital twin development partner is a critical decision that can have a substantial impact on the success of your smart manufacturing initiatives. By focusing on expertise, industry-specific knowledge, data management capabilities, a collaborative approach, and scalability, you can make an informed choice that aligns perfectly with your unique needs. As you evaluate different options, it's worth noting that some companies, like Saviant, have already demonstrated strong expertise in implementing custom digital twin solutions. Their experience and focus on innovation make them a strong candidate for any organization looking to invest in a digital twin for smart manufacturing. Take your time, ask for references, and make a decision that will serve you well in the long run.