A smart factory is a production facility that utilizes digital transformation principles, such as enhanced connectivity and data-driven processes, to optimize operations. It integrates technologies like the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), machine learning, and cloud computing to create a connected, self-correcting environment. While many manufacturers are adopting these principles, most are still in the early stages of their journey toward fully automated smart factories.

Mobile devices play a crucial role in modernizing manufacturing by enabling real-time data access, improving task management, and facilitating communication. They allow employees to perform functions such as inventory management, predictive maintenance, and quality control more efficiently. For instance, using mobile devices can increase employee productivity by approximately 34 percent per day, as they streamline processes and reduce reliance on paper.

A hybrid computing model combines cloud and on-premise data processing, allowing manufacturers to leverage the strengths of both. This approach minimizes latency in data processing, as mobile devices can act as edge computing processors, analyzing data close to the source. By doing so, companies can enhance predictive maintenance capabilities and improve overall operational efficiency, making it a valuable strategy for those advancing toward smart factory goals.