Cloud technology is fast becoming the standard for technology on the plant floor. Though the implementation of a cloud solution on the plant floor has shown to be a marked improvement over legacy, on-premise systems, there are still several key areas that should be addressed after implementation to ensure the high performance and availability of your cloud solution. 1. Internet Connectivity and Redundancy The advent of the Internet on the plant floor has brought faster and increased communication, but reliability and performance are two factors that need close attention as well. IT professionals need to ensure that a separate secondary Internet connection exists as a backup, as well as adequate response speed to keep production and data flowing without a hitch. 2. Application and Data Security Application and data security are real concerns, and it’s important that technology professionals are focused on three key areas of security: the security of the network environment in the end user’s facility, data security between the end user site and the cloud provider, and security within the cloud provider’s data center. With these three areas properly investigated before and during implementation, your data will be secure throughout the enterprise. 3. Mobility and Wireless Network Requirements A sound wireless network enables mobility so you can keep track of shipping, receiving, quality and more. From the beginning of the inventory lifecycle to the end, you can keep track in real time. Depending on the size of the plant floor and other facilities, IT professionals should ensure the wireless network eliminates or avoids dead spots and can handle roaming if needed. 4. Plant Floor Equipment Needs In order to enjoy the benefits of real-time data and accurate information from the plant floor, the use of barcode technology such as barcode printers, production workstations, mobile scanners and more are essential. Manufacturers are also incorporating wearable technology on the plant floor, using ring and eyeglass scanners to enhance productivity by allowing workers to learn the status of an item simply by walking up to it. 5. Integrations to other Systems A successful cloud solution needs to be able to “speak” to different devices on the plant floor. The cloud solution can do this through an open application interface (API), and technology professionals can use this to make machine-to-machine communication a cinch. Want to learn more? Access the “IT Infrastructure Tips for Ensuring High-Performance Cloud Connectivity” white paper. Related content brandpost Sponsored by PLEX A 2017 New Year’s Resolution for Manufacturers By Plex. Manufacturing Success Stories. Dec 22, 2016 2 mins Manufacturing Industry Cloud Computing brandpost Sponsored by PLEX Is Your ERP Solution Helping or Hurting your Business? 5 Warning Signs That It’s Floundering By Plex. Manufacturing Success Stories. Dec 22, 2016 3 mins Manufacturing Industry ERP Systems Cloud Computing brandpost Sponsored by PLEX 2 Manufacturing Quality Challenges Solved with Cloud ERP By Plex. Manufacturing Success Stories. Dec 21, 2016 2 mins Manufacturing Industry Cloud Computing brandpost Sponsored by PLEX Manufacturing in Their Genes: An ERP Technology Evolution By Plex. Manufacturing Success Stories. Dec 20, 2016 3 mins Manufacturing Industry Cloud Computing Podcasts Videos Resources Events SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER From our editors straight to your inbox Get started by entering your email address below. Please enter a valid email address Subscribe