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Using Industrial IoT technologies to connect the entire meat supply chain has the potential to provide significant productivity gains and profitability, writes Rockwell Automation’s Glen Jacob.

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is creating a new era for economic growth and competitiveness for the meat industry, which is valued at more than $20 billion per year in Australia and in excess of $8 billion per year in New Zealand.

IIoT technologies can add value throughout the entire meat supply chain through improved visibility and diagnostics, improved asset utilisation, reduced operational costs and ultimately improved productivity. More specifically, the technology is available today where improvements can be gained from reduced energy costs for refrigeration and other energy intensive equipment and machines; improved product quality and yield; traceability from producers through to consumers and also simplified safety and compliance procedures and reporting.”

Connected smart devices open new windows of visibility into processes. Data and analytics enable better informed and faster decision-making. The Connected Enterprise brings Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) together into a robust, secure and collaborative way to drive greater efficiency throughout the entire enterprise.

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