OpenJar Tech Launches "No Lids, No Limits" Podcast!

We're excited to announce the launch of OpenJar's new podcast, "No Lids, No Limits!". Our mission is to "keep the jar open" – a forum for sharing ideas, thoughts, and solutions on critical manufacturing topics, with a bias for delivering real value by finding problems worth solving.

The podcast is hosted by OpenJar experts Arek Rataj and Kin Leong. Arek brings over 20 years in the electronic components industry, specializing in data-driven strategies for sales, marketing, and supply chain optimization, having held director roles at leaders like DigiKey, Arrow, and Kimball Electronics. Kin offers 30 years of experience in manufacturing operations, particularly in electronics, with extensive offshoring and reshoring expertise, and chairs the Industrial Advisory Board at Simon Fraser University.

 

In Episode 1, Arek and Kin demystify AI implementation, focusing on its practical value for EMS companies.

 

• Prioritize Value and ROI: Any AI tool, like ERP or CRM systems, must generate business, acquire new customers, or better engage existing ones to bring true value. Avoid tools that only create more work or unnecessary data.
• Process Improvement First: AI isn't a magic fix. Tackle broken processes before adopting AI. For instance, an inventory problem is typically a supply chain issue, not solely an AI problem. Just as ERPs don't fix problems by themselves, people do by fixing processes.
• Target "Low-Hanging Fruit": Start with easy, repetitive tasks. Apply Pareto's Law – invest 20% effort for 80% return, rather than trying to solve everything at once.
• Clean Data is Crucial: "Garbage in, garbage out." Ensure accurate data from all sources, including customers (e.g., clean BOMs) and vendors (e.g., correct lead times, pricing). AI can also reveal unused data in legacy systems like ERPs, IoT, and pick-and-place machines, aligning with Industry 4.0.
• AI as a Capable Assistant: View AI as a "very smart intern" for tasks like drafting articles or summarizing emails. Professionals must always apply judgment, review, and edit AI outputs.

 

---

OpenJar Tech assists manufacturing leadership teams with strategic planning, process (re)design, IT implementation (ERP, CRM, SCM, STE), and data analysis to turn data into actionable insights.

Listen to Episode 1 of "No Lids, No Limits" now and help us guide future topics!