Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 26, 2026

Methodology for Establishing a Community-Wide Life Laboratory for Capturing Unobtrusive and Continuous Remote Activity and Health Data
Published on: July 27, 2018
The Current State of Sensing, Health Management, and Control for Small-To-Medium-Sized Manufacturers
1National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, USA.
Manufacturing small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) need better data access to navigate digital technologies. Case studies reveal key priorities for performance measurement, condition monitoring, and operational planning.
Area of Science:
- Manufacturing Technology
- Industrial Engineering
- Digital Transformation
Background:
- Digital technology adoption in manufacturing is hindered by complexity and a lack of understanding of industry-specific needs, particularly for small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs).
- SMEs face challenges in integrating new technologies due to limitations in their operational environments and expertise.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the specific needs, priorities, and constraints of manufacturing SMEs regarding digital technologies.
- To understand SME requirements in performance measurement, condition monitoring, diagnosis, and prognosis.
Main Methods:
- Conducted industrial case studies with contract and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) employing fewer than 500 people.
- Engaged with solution/equipment providers and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) centers.
- Included discussions with shop-floor personnel and site visits.
Main Results:
- SMEs expressed a significant need for accessible and appropriate data to enhance understanding and planning of manufacturing operations.
- Identified industrially relevant use cases for digital tools in scheduling, maintenance, budgeting, and workforce augmentation.
Conclusions:
- Addressing the data accessibility gap is crucial for SME digital transformation.
- Case studies provide a foundation for developing targeted digital solutions that meet the practical needs of manufacturing SMEs.
Related Concept Videos
Issues And Trends In Healthcare Delivery System
Cost Containment
Payment for healthcare services has historically promoted adoption of costly and often unnecessary or inefficient...
Health Information Technology and Healthcare Information System
Health Information Technology, commonly called HIT, integrates advanced information systems and technology in healthcare settings. Its primary functions include:
Pulse rhythm
Conversely, an irregular pulse pattern is termed dysrhythmia, stemming from disruptions in cardiac...
Introduction to Statistical Process Control
Control Systems
At the heart...
Errors occurring during blood pressure monitoring
Several factors...

