By Jeff Hoyle – EVP Aerospace & Defence, Expleo
If I were to ask our customers what more we could do for them, the answer would almost certainly be: “make it faster, make it cheaper, and make it better.” In our industry, this has always been the case. Time to market, cost and efficiency are all central to profitability. Even the most marginal of gains can go a long way.
What’s more, following a tough couple of years where the safety credentials have been placed in the spotlight, sustainability remains an ongoing concern, and economic pressures continue to bite, the demand for “faster, cheaper, better” has only intensified.
The most pressing short-term challenge for the industry is how to address this. Ensuring economic viability now will be the launchpad for further investment, greater innovation and a means to hit ambitious Net Zero targets.
The only answer is to fully embrace digital.
First and foremost, the technical expertise and skills that have taken us to where we are today are irreplaceable. Digital technologies, however, can provide additional bandwidth and support aerospace professionals, especially as we face an on-going skills crisis. This is particularly true in the case of technology such as robotic process automation (RPA) which has the potential to take on repetitive, labour-intensive tasks. Likewise, the application of AI in the manufacturing and production process, or predictive analysis, can realise further efficiencies that could improve timelines and ultimately, profitability.
While there might be traditionalists who are resistant to this kind of change, we as an industry need to come together to help them understand technology is an enabler, not a replacement.
Digitalise the process, not just the tools
A digital head start
As an industry, we can be reassured we aren’t starting from scratch. While certain details and conditions, particularly relating to safety and regulation, might be specific to aerospace – the challenge to improve efficiency, cost and quality is not. Advances in AI, automation, big data and more are being made all the time in industries such as automotive, transport and even retail which aerospace can learn from. This means taking a less insular view and inviting those outside of our traditional ecosystem in. The benefits will work both ways and lead to greater innovation in the long run.
The opportunity for the aerospace industry to transform itself into a leaner, more efficient, and forward-thinking machine is there. By embracing digital technologies today, we will lay the groundwork for a profitable, sustainable future.
Find out more about Expleo's expertise in aerospace
In today’s dynamic aerospace market staying ahead of the curve demands harnessing cutting-edge technologies and skills. See how we’re empowering our clients to accelerate timelines with digitalisation, foster a sustainable future, and pioneer the next frontier in space exploration.
