Smarter manufacturing: Evaluating the impact of low-cost digital solutions in Manufacturing SMEs

Abstract

This study assesses the qualitative impact of deploying 286 low-cost IoT digital solutions across over 100 manufacturing SMEs between 2023 and 2025. The focus is on supporting companies to gather insights into power consumption, environmental conditions, job tracking, and more by providing fully funded pre-assembled kits which could be fitted to existing machinery and production areas. By working closely with companies to conduct structured interviews and create detailed case studies, the findings suggest that these affordable devices can improve operational visibility, costs and health and safety practices. Feedback from companies indicated that the adoption of low-cost solutions was effective in de-risking the transition into digital technologies, with 75% of company responses indicating they would be interested in investing further. However, challenges regarding the level of technical support requirements and long-term use of data were identified. This initial research demonstrates the potential of low-cost technologies in driving digital adoption strategies, offering practical guidance and examples relevant to policymakers and industrial practitioners.