Automate Supply Chain for OEMs: Human-Centric Approach

Automate Supply Chain for OEMs: Human-Centric Approach

Automate Supply Chain for OEMs: Human-Centric Approach highlights insights from a C-suite round table on robotics, vendor platforms, and supply chain agility.

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OEM manufacturing trends are rapidly evolving with the shift toward Industry 5.0, where human-centric manufacturing automation and collaborative robotics are redefining how factories operate.

On August 5, 2025, Universal Robots, a Teradyne Robotics Company, in collaboration with OEM Update magazine, hosted an exclusive C-suite round table in Juhu, Mumbai. This closed-door event brought together senior decision-makers from automotive OEMs and pharmaceutical manufacturers to explore:

“Transitioning to Industry 5.0: Collaborative Robotics for a Resilient Future.”

Among the thought leaders was Rajib Jena, Founder of Zordiso, who offered unique insights into OEM vendor collaboration, digital transformation, and supply chain automation.

Mr. Rajib Jena’s Key Contribution: OEM Collaboration + Automation

Representing Zordiso, Rajib Jena addressed how OEMs can integrate automation with vendor management platforms to solve critical supply chain challenges.
His perspective focused on practical, scalable solutions that deliver results before requiring large capital expenditure.

Key Insights for OEMs

·        OEM Supply Chain Visibility: Real-time data tracking across procurement, production, and dispatch.

·        Automation for ASN & Invoice Validation: Reducing gate delays and disputes, a common pain point for OEMs.

·        Lean Inventory & Just-in-Time Production: Enabling OEMs to optimize working capital and throughput.

·        Workforce Upskilling: Preparing employees to work alongside collaborative robots (cobots) and advanced digital tools.

·        Data Standardization: Ensuring OEM digital transformation efforts are built on clean, consistent data across the value chain.

His approach closely aligned with the panel’s theme of human-machine collaboration, emphasizing that OEMs must empower teams with automation instead of simply replacing manual processes.

Why Human-Centric Automation Matters for OEMs

For automotive and pharma OEMs, human-centric automation delivers tangible benefits:

·        Improved Throughput: Automated validation and vendor collaboration reduce production stoppages.

·        Quality & Compliance: Cobots and automated checks ensure consistency and traceability.

·        Operational Agility: Quick response to changing demand without overstocking.

·        Sustainability Goals: Lean inventory and reduced waste support ESG objectives.

·        OEM-Supplier Relationships: Transparent communication strengthens partnerships and reduces disputes.

Industry 5.0 and the Future of OEM Manufacturing

The panel explored how OEMs can bridge the Industry 4.0 to 5.0 gap, noting that adoption is uneven between large corporations and SMEs.

Rajib Jena’s Recommendation

Start with high-impact automation projects like ASN automation and gate-pass digitization to prove ROI before investing in enterprise-wide transformation.
This “start small, scale fast” model helps OEMs secure stakeholder buy-in and build resilient operations.

10 FAQs About OEM Manufacturing & Human-Centric Automation

Q1: What does Industry 5.0 mean for OEM manufacturing?

It shifts focus from pure automation to collaboration, OEMs use robotics and AI to enhance human performance rather than replace it.

Q2: How can OEMs benefit from vendor collaboration platforms?

They streamline communication, reduce invoice mismatches, and provide real-time visibility across the supply chain, saving time and cost.

Q3: What are the top OEM automation challenges today?

High capital costs, inconsistent data, lack of skilled workforce, and slow SME adoption.

Q4: How does Rajib Jena recommend OEMs start digital transformation?

By prioritizing high-impact automation areas that deliver quick wins and measurable ROI.

Q5: What role does data integrity play for OEMs?

Standardized data enables accurate AI insights, MES integration, and smoother production planning.

Q6: How can OEMs prepare their workforce for Industry 5.0?

Through structured upskilling, training on digital tools, and change management programs.

Q7: What are the benefits of cobots for OEM production lines?

Cobots improve safety, reduce repetitive strain injuries, and increase flexibility for low-volume, high-variance tasks.

Q8: Can SMEs in the OEM supply chain adopt automation affordably?

Yes, cloud-based, modular solutions make automation scalable and cost-effective for SMEs.

Q9: What are the ROI expectations for OEM automation investments?

Faster production cycles, fewer supply chain disputes, and leaner inventory lead to measurable cost savings.

Q10: What is the long-term impact of Industry 5.0 for OEMs?

More resilient, adaptive, and sustainable manufacturing ecosystems that balance human creativity with robotic efficiency.

Conclusion

The OEM Update & Universal Robots Round Table was a strategic conversation about the future of manufacturing.

As Rajib Jena, CEO of Zordiso, highlighted, the future for OEMs lies in:

·        Building real-time supply chain visibility

·        Standardizing data for digital transformation

·        Upskilling workforce for collaborative automation

·        Leveraging vendor collaboration platforms to strengthen OEM-supplier relationships

By embracing human-centric manufacturing automation, OEMs can become more agile, innovative, and sustainable, positioning themselves as leaders in the Industry 5.0 era.