
From Paper and Spreadsheets to Connected Data: Making the Digital Leap w/ Ian Burns
From The Manufacturing Executive by Joe Sullivan
March 10, 2026 · Season 1 · Episode 300
About this episode
Ian Burns discusses the transition from traditional methods to integrated, data-driven environments in manufacturing.
Why do so many manufacturers still rely on paper, spreadsheets and disconnected systems to run complex operations? And what unfolds when they step into fully integrated, data-driven environments? In this episode, President at Applied Control Engineering, Inc, Ian Burns, will answer these questions. He'll also explain how digital twins are impacting everything from operator training to faster, safer process improvements. And he'll share candid insights on the unique cybersecurity challenges facing modern manufacturers as their systems become increasingly interconnected.
People in this episode
Host: Joe Sullivan
Guest: Ian Burns
Topics covered
- digital transformation
- manufacturing
- data integration
- cybersecurity
- digital twins
Keywords
- manufacturing
- digital twins
- cybersecurity
- data-driven
- integrated systems
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Applied Control Engineering, Inc
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