Better Insights: Greg McHale Shares How Shops Are Unlocking the Power of Their Data
Discover how leading shops are unlocking hidden insights in their manufacturing data with Greg McHale’s practical advice on connectivity, security, and integration.
Modern manufacturing shops are generating more data than ever. However, turning that data into actionable insights requires more than just collecting it — it also requires integration, security, and the right mindset. And when it comes to digital transformation on the shop floor, there are plenty of buzzwords floating around. In a recent interview with Smart Shop Essentials, Greg McHale, founder and CEO of Datanomix, shares valuable insights into how manufacturers can leverage their production data to improve efficiency and profitability. Real progress happens when manufacturers start connecting the dots between their systems, and that starts with getting connected.
The First Step: Shop Floor Connectivity
Connectivity is still step one. While more shops are networking their machines than a few years ago, most are still early in their journey. For many, the first step toward data-driven manufacturing starts with production monitoring or simply moving files from programming to the floor. A reliable network lays the foundation for smarter manufacturing.
Navigating Cybersecurity and CMMC 2.0 Compliance
Cybersecurity matters more than ever. For aerospace and defense manufacturers, compliance with standards like CMMC 2.0 is driving significant IT investments. Manufacturers are taking a closer look at their infrastructure and bringing in the right expertise to build secure, resilient networks. “Even the basics of IT become critical questions,” McHale explains.
The Shift to Cloud-Based Manufacturing Software
Cloud-based solutions are changing the game. As more manufacturing software moves to the cloud — including ERP, CAM, quality systems, and production monitoring tools like Datanomix — data is being aggregated and made accessible in ways that weren’t possible with legacy on-premise systems. This shift breaks down silos and enables advanced data analysis without the limitations of local infrastructure.
Why Data Integration is Key to Manufacturing Visibility
Integration is the key to true visibility. No single system has all the answers. “The concept that manufacturing software solutions are a closed ecosystem is a dead end,” McHale emphasizes. True manufacturing intelligence requires connecting data across quoting, ERP, tooling, quality, and real-time performance monitoring. With integrated systems, manufacturers can make informed decisions that improve profitability, reduce setup times, and optimize processes.
A Changing Mindset in Manufacturing
The industry mindset is shifting. The days of resisting technology are fading. Manufacturers now recognize that staying competitive requires better visibility and actionable insights. More shops are hiring manufacturing engineers skilled in data analytics and actively investing in digital solutions to improve shop floor performance.
At Datanomix, we’re proud to help manufacturers connect equipment, integrate systems, and unlock the full potential of their production data. As McHale puts it: “Manufacturing is only getting harder, which is why people need different angles on visibility.” And that’s exactly where Datanomix helps.
Read the full interview to hear more of Greg’s insights on how information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) can work together to help manufacturers maximize production efficiency.
