As the year comes to a close, manufacturers across the Midwest are already planning for 2026. Many share the same goals: improve efficiency, reduce labor strain, and strengthen long-term competitiveness. December is an ideal time to set clear Digital Manufacturing resolutions that focus on modernizing technology, automating critical workflows, and connecting systems that have become operational bottlenecks.
Digital Manufacturing is no longer a future initiative. It is a practical, achievable strategy that helps manufacturers operate with greater visibility, accuracy, and control. Below are the top Digital Manufacturing priorities manufacturers should consider to start 2026 with momentum.
1. Integrate Systems for a Unified Digital Manufacturing Workflow
Disconnected systems remain one of the biggest barriers to effective Digital Manufacturing. When quoting, ERP, inventory, and accounting tools operate independently, manufacturers experience delays, errors, and limited visibility.
System integration supports Digital Manufacturing by delivering:
- Elimination of duplicate data entry
- Real-time operational visibility
- Faster job turnaround times
- More informed and confident decision making
A unified workflow allows teams to move faster while maintaining accuracy across departments.
2. Replace or Modernize Legacy Applications
Many manufacturers still rely on systems that are 10 to 20 years old. These tools often limit the success of Digital Manufacturing initiatives due to outdated technology and manual workarounds.
Modernizing legacy applications enables manufacturers to:
- Improve system reliability
- Reduce manual processes and workarounds
- Gain flexibility through customization
- Support long term scalability and growth
Digital Manufacturing does not always require a full system replacement. In many cases, targeted modernization delivers meaningful results without disruption.
3. Improve Inventory Accuracy with Digital Manufacturing Tools
Inventory challenges are a common obstacle for manufacturers pursuing Digital Manufacturing. Modern inventory systems provide the accuracy and visibility needed to keep production moving.
Digital inventory tools support:
- Live material tracking
- Accurate inventory counts
- Automated reorder points
- Improved production scheduling
- Reduced downtime and shortages
Accurate inventory data is foundational to successful Digital Manufacturing and efficient production planning.
4. Streamline Quoting with Digital Manufacturing Solutions
Quoting remains a critical area where Digital Manufacturing delivers immediate impact. Manual and spreadsheet based estimating often leads to delays and pricing inconsistencies.
An integrated CPQ system aligned with ERP helps manufacturers reduce:
- Pricing errors and inconsistencies
- Slow quote turnaround times
- Manual estimating processes
- Missed or delayed revenue opportunities
Digital Manufacturing enables faster, more accurate quoting that supports both sales and operations.
5. Build a Data Driven Digital Manufacturing Environment
Digital Manufacturing thrives on data. Real time dashboards and reporting tools give leadership the insights needed to guide operations confidently.
A data driven production environment provides:
- Clear production performance insights
- Accurate job costing
- Labor utilization metrics
- Improved forecasting and planning models
When data is accessible and connected, Digital Manufacturing becomes a daily operational advantage rather than a long term goal.
Digital Manufacturing Use Cases Delivering Results Today
Case 1: Quoting Accuracy Improved by 40 Percent
A Wisconsin metal fabrication shop replaced spreadsheet based quoting with a CPQ system integrated into ERP. The result was faster quotes and significantly improved pricing accuracy.
Case 2: Real Time Inventory Reduced Material Shortages
A plastics manufacturer integrated its ERP and inventory systems as part of a broader Digital Manufacturing initiative, reducing material shortages by 60 percent.
Case 3: Legacy ERP Modernization Improved Scheduling
A Minnesota fabrication shop modernized outdated ERP integrations, enabling better production planning and more reliable scheduling.
Final Thoughts: Make 2026 the Year of Digital Manufacturing Clarity
Digital Manufacturing resolutions do not require massive transformations to be effective. The most successful manufacturers start with high impact improvements such as system integration, quoting automation, inventory accuracy, and legacy modernization.
A more connected Digital Manufacturing environment delivers:
- Fewer operational errors
- Faster throughput
- Lower operating costs
- Increased profitability
With the right priorities and a clear roadmap, 2026 can be the year Digital Manufacturing becomes both achievable and measurable for your operation.