1. Describe how suppliers of factory automation equipment are helping manufacturers to solve or prevent factory malfunctions.
2. How might these remote monitoring systems create greater efficiencies at factories?
3. What are some of the risks associated with continual monitoring by a third-party supplier?

When something breaks at a manufacturing plant, an engineer or manager comes in to fix the problem. Loss of sleep and stress can profoundly affect these employees, particularly as factories are facing a shortage of skilled workers to handle manufacturing malfunctions. For instance, ABB Ltd. works with Bayer AG to remotely monitor equipment at its plant in Berkeley, California, for signs that would indicate a problem with Bayer’s equipment. This monitoring helps factory employees detect a potential problem and correct it before it becomes an issue. Some organizations have found it beneficial to offer 24-hour monitoring services. However, there are risks associated with allowing an outside supplier complete access to information about manufacturing processes. Protecting their manufacturing processes is important for manufacturers to retain their competitive advantage.