DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
“ Our work with Google Cloud provides manufacturers with the infrastructure to house their data and make it actionable,” says Brandon.“ We’ ve built tools that help manufacturers improve efficiency and product quality using this data.”
MDE capabilities have been demonstrated at the MXD Experience Centre, showcasing how manufacturers can improve production processes through AI-driven insights.
Beyond MDE, GFT has worked with manufacturers like Fehrer to deliver AI-powered visual inspection solutions.
“ AI helps scale visual inspection by automating the process of detecting defects in assembly lines, where manual inspection can be time-consuming and prone to error,” Brandon says.“ With Google Cloud’ s help, we implemented a solution for Fehrer in just three months, improving production quality and efficiency.”
Despite solutions like MDE, AI adoption remains challenging for many manufacturers. Both executives offer practical advice for organisations embarking on this journey.
“ Don’ t rush implementation,” Brandon suggests.“ Start small, take an incremental approach and showcase value step by step. It’ s an evolutionary process, not a revolution.”
Fabien concurs:“ Introduce AI gradually to minimise disruption. Allow employees time to adapt and provide support to help them optimise new tools.”
“MDE ALLOWS COMPANIES TO USE AI MODELS FOR PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE, QUALITY CONTROL, AND OTHER APPLICATIONS TO OPTIMISE PRODUCTION”
FABIEN DUBOEUF, INDUSTRY MANAGER, GOOGLE
Flexibility during implementation is essential, according to Fabien:“ Be ready to pivot based on feedback, and don’ t try to change everything at once. Start with technologies that integrate well with existing systems.”
Brandon emphasises that AI should complement human workers rather than replace them:“ AI should create a safer work environment and enhance workflows,” he says.
Both leaders encourage manufacturers to recognise AI’ s capabilities, focusing on possibilities rather than constraints.
“ Be bold, experiment, and know that the only limit to AI is your imagination,” Brandon concludes.
238 May 2025