DMI is delighted to share with you our Human-Centric Manufacturing Research journal article that has been published online by Taylor & Francis, Production & Manufacturing Research.

In 2023 DMI embarked on a research study focusing on human-centric manufacturing culture (HCM). This study was conducted in collaboration with the Sociotechnical Systems Research Center at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and the International Academy of Automation Engineering (IAAE). The primary motivation for this research was to gather insights and knowledge on HCM and its cultural implications.

The concept of Human-Centric Manufacturing (HCM) culture places an emphasis on the well-being, empowerment, and collaboration of the workforce. HCM culture transformation is inherently more complex than the ongoing digital technology adoption. While integrating new digital technologies can be challenging, it often involves clear, tangible steps and measurable outcomes. In contrast, transforming HCM culture requires a fundamental shift in organisational mindset, a re-evaluation of workplace practices, and significant investment in training and development. This transformation is not merely about introducing new tools but about fostering an environment where employees feel valued, engaged, and integral to the company’s success. For manufacturing leaders in Ireland, understanding and implementing HCM is crucial to driving innovation, enhancing job satisfaction, and improving overall productivity.

Donna Rhodes, principal research scientist at MIT, explains “although numerous studies have investigated human-centric manufacturing, our first-of-its-kind study prioritizes the cultural aspect, offering real-world, research-based insights to guide industry leaders in crafting an impactful digital transformation roadmap”. You can read about the research, findings, 12 emergent themes and future Workforce collaborations in the research article through the link below.

Research Article: Human-centric manufacturing culture: a research study of MedTech manufacturers in Ireland

Authors: Dr. Donna H. Rhodes, MIT; Sara Cuddy, DMI; Malcolm Jeffers, IAAE, & Fiona O’Rourke, DMI.