96 FEATURE We asked selected Microsoft partners how Microsoft-powered digital twin technology and IoT-driven processes are helping manufacturers to automate their operations in a sustainable and profitable way Partner perspectives “Intelligent factories need integrated software solutions to gain real-time visibility of the transformation of raw materials to finished goods by way of automated production processes and data-driven continuous improvement. In the process, they unlock reductions in energy consumption, resource use and waste, while improving efficiency and sustainability. AVEVA is part of Schneider Electric and, together with Microsoft, both firms focus on creating sustainable value for industrial businesses. An example is Schneider Electric’s energy equipment manufacturing plant in Lexington, Kentucky, where an integrated data platform has cut manual paperwork by 90 per cent, boosted workforce productivity, and decreased unplanned downtime by nearly six per cent. The factory is recognised as a Sustainability Lighthouse for digital manufacturing by the World Economic Forum.” Brendan Mislin General Manager, Industry X, Avanade Sree Hameed Consumer Products Industry Strategist, AVEVA “Microsoft’s sustainability solutions enable manufacturers to cut costs and carbon emissions. For example, Avanade is supporting a European automaker on its journey to become carbon neutral by 2040 and adopt circular economy business models. Our Facility and Environmental Sustainability Tool helps the firm monitor and manage energy usage, and the associated carbon emissions, across its production, office and retail facilities. Our research shows that digital twins can enable manufacturers to reduce energy usage and waste by 10-20 per cent. At the same time, they’re able to pinpoint opportunities to improve quality assurance, worker productivity, supply chain efficiencies and more.” Photo: iStock/alvarez Photo: iStock/pcess609
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