Staying updated on technology trends is crucial in the manufacturing sector. Balancing operational optimization, cost reduction, and cybersecurity is a challenging task. 

The key solution? Managed services. Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) deliver crucial support, turning IT problems into business strengths. MSPs go beyond saving money; they offer a competitive advantage in a challenging market.  

 How do these services deliver tangible benefits for manufacturers like yourself? 

Coeus Consulting, a Phoenix-based MSSP, continuously focused on providing IT managed services to small—to medium-sized manufacturing customers. 

Key Takeaways 

Managed services offer specialized IT support, cutting in-house staffing costs, and providing predictable monthly fees. 

• Streamlined processes through managed services boost productivity and efficiency on the factory floor. 

• Assisting clients in meeting CMMC requirements, including monitoring and remediation of critical systems. 

• Real-life examples show significant cost reductions, efficiency improvements, and enhanced security through managed services. 

• Managed services offer a strategic advantage, elevating manufacturing operations to new heights of competitiveness through proactive cybersecurity protection and meeting compliance and privacy mandates. 

 Key Benefits of Managed Services for Manufacturing 

What are Managed Services in manufacturing? 

Managed services in smart manufacturing refer to outsourcing the management and maintenance of IT infrastructure, systems, and processes to a third-party provider. MSSPs, such as Coeus Consulting, offer a range of services, including network monitoring, cybersecurity, data backup, and software updates. 

Flexibility and durability are crucial in modern smart manufacturing factories. Managed services extend beyond IT support, integrating seamlessly into operations and delivering valuable benefits. 

Operational Cost Savings Through Managed Services 

 Managed service delivery advantages include scalability, flexibility, with set monthly fees. Predictable costs facilitate budgeting, enabling efficient resource allocation and leveraging technology as a valuable asset. 

Increased Operational Efficiency in Manufacturing Operations 

 Maximizing efficiency and competitiveness is crucial in manufacturing; utilizing managed services is key. MSP services deliver results for manufacturers, specifically addressing risks to the factory floor, user devices, and critical system control units.  

Additionally, managed services offer seamless integration with your current systems, ensuring no disruptions to your business processes but enhancements. Implementing proactive maintenance schedules can reduce equipment failures and prevent unexpected breakdowns. Many manufacturers have adopted this successful approach, leading to increased productivity and more streamlined operations. 

Improved Cybersecurity and Risk Management for Manufacturing 

 How secure are Managed Services for manufacturing companies? 

MSSPs prioritize cybersecurity and safeguard clients’ data by implementing robust security measures, including encryption, firewalls, and regular audits. Manufacturers can feel confident in the security of their data and systems when working with trustworthy managed service providers (MSPs) like Coeus Consulting. 

Additionally, employee training programs are a valuable component of managed services that support the manufacturing sector. By fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness, they empower your team to become the first line of defense. In an era where data breaches can have devastating consequences, these services provide the security and peace of mind you need to focus on what you do best—manufacturing. 

Effective and efficient IT managed services ultimately help modern manufacturers lower risk, leverage next-generation cybersecurity automation capabilities, and meet complex compliance mandates, including CMMC. 

CMMC Requirements for Small-To-Medium Manufacturing Firms 

 Small- to medium-sized manufacturing firms in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) must now face the reality of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). It is vital to comprehend and prepare for CMMC to uphold current Department of Defense contracts and pursue new opportunities. 

CMMC aims to set a uniform standard for cybersecurity in the Defense Industrial Base, shifting from self-certification to third-party assessments. The level of certification needed (ranging from Foundational to Expert) is based on the type and sensitivity of the data involved. Small—to medium-sized manufacturing businesses typically deal with Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), requiring at least a Level 2 certification. 

The Role of IT Managed Services in Supporting CMMC Requirements 

CMMC compliance can be daunting for small and medium-sized manufacturers, but IT Managed Service Providers (MSPs) offer essential support for implementing and maintaining required security controls. 

MSSPs, such as Coeus Consulting, offer essential assistance in gap assessments, security planning, IT infrastructure management, and compliance. These services enable manufacturers to focus on their core operations, work towards achieving CMMC certification, and maintain DoD contracts. 

A solid cybersecurity posture across all manufacturing systems is crucial in the competitive manufacturing industry. Managed services go beyond just improving operations; they enhance your overall business strategy. By matching technology solutions with your objectives, you set yourself up for success in a constantly evolving market. 

Real-Life Examples of Manufacturing Companies Benefiting from Managed Services 

 The practical benefits of managed services for manufacturing companies are clear. These include IT cost savings, increased production efficiency, scalability, flexibility, and stronger data security, which give manufacturers a competitive edge. 

• Take, for example, a top car maker. Through managed services, they reduced their IT expenses by 30%, allowing for increased investment in research and development, which in turn enabled innovation and a competitive advantage. These savings highlight the cost-saving benefits of managed services. 

• A textile company saw a 25% increase in production efficiency after using managed service solutions. They streamlined manufacturing processes and improved workflows, leading to higher productivity levels. This efficiency boost resulted in shorter lead times and improved customer satisfaction. 

• In the food industry, a company used managed services to strengthen its data security, avoid costly repercussions of compromised information, safeguard its reputation, and improve business continuity. 

• A drug company improved speed-to-market with help from managed IT services. By enhancing their supply chain and logistics, they quickly cut delays and released products. This flexibility provided a significant advantage in a competitive industry, enabling them to seize new growth opportunities. 

Bottom Line 

 How can Managed Services help manufacturers save costs? 

By outsourcing IT management to a managed service provider, manufacturers can reduce the need for in-house IT staff, avoid costly downtime due to system failures, and benefit from economies of scale. These benefits can lead to significant cost savings over time, allowing manufacturers to focus on their core business functions. 

 The Value IT Managed Services Supporting the Manufacturing Industry 

Managed services have emerged as a vital tool for achieving cost savings, efficiency, and security in the manufacturing industry. Manufacturers can reduce staffing costs by outsourcing IT support and benefit from predictable monthly fees. Streamlined processes and real-time monitoring enhance productivity and minimize downtime, while advanced cybersecurity measures protect sensitive data. 

Ready?

 So, are you ready to harness the power of managed services and transform your manufacturing operations? The future of manufacturing is here, and it’s time to embrace the possibilities.