The Manufacturing Matrix

E19: Drag, Drop, Deploy: How Fuuz Modernizes Manufacturing

Craig Scott welcomes Brandon Peterson and Lance Menard to compare Ignition Software and the Fuuz platform. Ignition shines in solving immediate OT problems with rapid prototyping and machine-level HMIs, but for enterprise-wide transformation, Fuuz steps in: cloud-native, scalable, and secure, with built-in user management, SSO, and hybrid connectivity.They explore how both platforms can coexist: Ignition at the edge, Fuuz at the enterprise level. Brandon highlights Fuuz's drag-and-drop ERD designer, GraphQL API, and integration-ready flows, making it easier to manage data across MES, WMS, and ERP systems.If you're aiming to bridge OT and IT, this episode breaks down where each tool fits... and how Fuuz accelerates the journey to Industry 4.0.
00:13 Introduction to the Manufacturing Matrix Podcast01:18 Brandon’s Background and Experience01:28 Comparing Fuuz and Ignition02:22 The Hosted Advantage of Fuuz05:40 From Quick Fixes to Scalable Solutions09:00 Building for the Future with Fuuz12:00 When to Use Fuuz vs. Ignition15:01 Data Modeling and API Generation in Fuuz19:02 The Importance of Scalability and Security22:30 Overcoming Challenges in Manufacturing Operations25:03 Empowering Users with Fuuz26:01 Future Developments and Enhancements27:39 The Versatility of Flows in Fuuz30:02 Event-Driven Architecture in Action31:01 The Transition from Point Solutions33:00 Lessons from Experience36:00 Navigating Organizational Challenges39:00 The Path to Industry 4.041:00 Looking Ahead: Innovations and Team Growth
 
Show LinksWant to learn more about FUUZ? Check out the links below! Website: https://fuuz.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fuuz2/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJcJs6NTw3WM2tf6vgeKMbA

E18: From Chaos to Clarity: Smarter Scheduling with Fuuz

In this episode, Craig Scott and the Fuuz team unveil their latest innovation: a fully flexible, low-code scheduling component built right into the Fuuz industrial platform. Unlike traditional MES or APS systems, this scheduler is completely agnostic and configurable to any scenario, from shipping docks to maintenance tasks.Ryan Hamilton breaks down how the system tackles time zones, daylight savings, and recurring events with the power of the Rrule library. It overlays schedules, flags downtime, supports draft-and-approve workflows, and handles multiple resource types... all on a single screen. Customers can even drop the scheduler into their screen builder without writing custom code, then link it directly to any data model.Whether you're managing assets, work orders, or entire production lines, this tool makes scheduling faster, smarter, and way less painful.
00:15 Introduction to the Manufacturing Matrix01:09 The Complexity of Scheduling in Manufacturing03:04 Innovative Scheduling Solutions05:03 Connecting Schedules with Resources07:30 The Scheduler as a Modular Component10:32 Iterative Scheduling Scenarios12:08 Configuring the Scheduler15:40 Advanced Features of the Scheduler18:01 Multi-Resource Scheduling
Show LinksWant to learn more about FUUZ? Check out the links below! Website: https://fuuz.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fuuz2/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJcJs6NTw3WM2tf6vgeKMbA

E17: Inside Automate: Safety, Smarts, and Real-World Robotics

In this episode, the Fuuz team recaps their experience at the Automate Show, where robotics, autonomous vehicles, and AI-driven tools took center stage. But beyond the flash, one big theme stood out: safety. From machine vision to light-guided systems, the tech on display wasn’t just about replacing humans—it was about making them better, faster, and safer.They dive into the growing need for open connectivity as proprietary systems continue to complicate automation integration. AI buzz was everywhere, but the team cuts through the noise, reminding listeners to focus on real use cases over marketing hype.They also explore how Fuuz could show up at future events with hands-on demos, like AGV integrations or gamified warehouse workflows. Think barcode scanning games, production badges, and label-printing bag tosses... bringing complex tech to life in fun, engaging ways.
1:32 – Why We’re Here: Automate Show Recap2:06 – Ryan's Favorite Robots5:55 – Light Guide Systems & Safety Tech8:30 – Lance on Autonomous Vehicles & Forklifts10:16 – Technology + Safety: A Growing Theme10:24 – Software Shoutouts: Tulip & Ignition13:13 – Ignition 8.3: What's New14:25 – Vertical Storage & Warehouse Efficiency16:23 – The Integration Challenge18:04 – Proprietary Protocols vs Open Frameworks21:33 – AI Overload: Buzzword or Breakthrough?26:00 – Copilot & Real-World AI Tools30:06 – Swag, 3D Printers & Show Floor Fun
Show LinksWant to learn more about FUUZ? Check out the links below! Website: https://fuuz.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fuuz2/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJcJs6NTw3WM2tf6vgeKMbA

E16: Beyond the Cloud: Fuuz’s Edge Flows & Local Data Processing

Lance is back in the studio with Craig to dive into the latest advancements in the Fuuz platform, tackling key innovations designed to streamline manufacturing operations. This time, they're talking about inline web flows, edge flows, and a powerful new data mapping tool—all aimed at making data handling and automation easier than ever.Fuuz’s inline web flows simplify UI logic by embedding it directly within screens, cutting down on complexity. Edge flows take shop floor connectivity to the next level, allowing local data processing even during network outages. The data mapping tool makes transforming and validating data seamless across different systems.Lance also teases Fuuz’s upcoming Unified Namespace (UNS), a cloud-hosted solution that provides a single, structured view of enterprise data—ensuring better decision-making and smooth system integrations.
00:00 Introduction01:11 Understanding the Roadmap04:11 Diving into Platform Features05:19 Exploring Inline Web Flows10:12 Benefits of Inline Web Flows12:10 Screen Dialogues and Future Enhancements14:02 The Role of Edge Flows19:10 Data Mapping and Its Importance27:09 Transforming Data: The ETL Process28:01 Visual Data Mapping: Use Cases and Features32:37 EDI Integration: Challenges and Solutions33:43 Understanding the Unified Namespace Concept37:01 Building a Cloud-Hosted UNS Solution40:01 Edge Solutions and Scalability44:19 Addressing Master Data Integration Challenges47:29 The Road Ahead: Future Initiatives
 
Show LinksWant to learn more about FUUZ? Check out the links below! Website: https://fuuz.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fuuz2/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJcJs6NTw3WM2tf6vgeKMbA

E15: Optimizing Warehouse Management: How Fuuz is Changing the Game

Craig Scott sits down with Steve Modrall to explore how Fuuz is transforming warehouse management. The Fuuz platform offers flexible, customizable solutions for inventory tracking, shipping automation, and cost reduction. Businesses are shifting toward smarter warehouse strategies—consolidating locations, improving traceability, and setting automation rules for carriers and product types.Fuuz stands out by eliminating the need for complex code changes, giving users control over their own logic and processes. Plus, its ability to integrate with RFID, ASRS, and pick-to-light tech makes warehouse execution more efficient and safer. If you're looking for a future-proof warehouse management system, this episode is a must-listen.
00:00 Introduction to Fuuz and Warehouse Management01:07 Current Trends in Warehouse Management03:06 The Evolution of Warehouse Management Systems05:29 Optimizing Warehouse Operations08:16 Flexibility and Customization in Warehouse Management10:51 Empowering Citizen Developers12:12 Key Benefits of a Robust Warehouse Management System15:08 Real-Time Visibility and Integration18:41 Adapting to Unique Industry Requirements21:03 Extending Solutions Across the Supply Chain
 
Show LinksWant to learn more about FUUZ? Check out the links below! Website: https://fuuz.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fuuz2/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJcJs6NTw3WM2tf6vgeKMbA

E14: From Manual to Modern: Smarter Production Scheduling with Fuuz

This week, Craig sits down with one of Fuuz's newest partners, Western Computer's Account Executive Ryan Pollyniak. Western Computer specializes in ERP and CRM solutions for manufacturing and distribution, handling production output, inventory, and available-to-promise data.Ryan breaks down why modern tools are essential for scalability and efficiency. That’s where Fuuz comes in—filling functional gaps in Microsoft Dynamics 365 with solutions for production scheduling, quality control, and shop floor data collection. Fuuz helps businesses extend the life of their ERP, offering deeper integration and real-time insights without a full system overhaul.Tune in for insights on optimizing your ERP strategy!
00:00 Introduction02:07 Challenges in the Manufacturing Sector05:56 The Role of MES in Manufacturing09:55 Integrating Fuuz with Microsoft Solutions12:24 Extending the Life of ERP Systems15:22 Western Computer’s Expertise and Client Base18:30 Change Management in Manufacturing
 
Guest Links:
Western Computer: https://www.westerncomputer.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/microsoftdynamicssolutions/
 
Show LinksWant to learn more about FUUZ? Check out the links below! Website: https://fuuz.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fuuz2/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJcJs6NTw3WM2tf6vgeKMbA

E13: Manufacturing Innovation: Fuuz’s Insights from the ProveIt! Conference

On this week's "The Manufacturing Matrix": The ProveIt! conference made waves in the manufacturing world, and your host Craig Scott breaks down why. This event challenges vendors to “prove it” by solving real manufacturing problems using a virtual factory model—no sales pitches, just real solutions. Craig shares key takeaways, including the industry’s shift toward data democratization and open connectivity.The Fuuz team saw firsthand how their platform fits into this evolving ecosystem and discusses plans to showcase its connectivity and real-world impact at next year’s event. If you're looking for insights on bridging IT and OT, leveraging open platforms, and staying ahead in The Fourth Industrial Revolution, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways.
 
00:00 Welcome to the Manufacturing Matrix Podcast01:07 Reflections on the Prove It Conference02:18 The Conference’s Unique Approach05:01 Understanding Data in Manufacturing10:03 Bridging IT and OT12:02 Audience Insights and Presentation Strategies16:03 Finding the Right Balance in Offerings20:06 The Power of Open Connectivity24:02 Lessons Learned and Future Directions30:10 Preparing for Next Year’s Conference
 
Show LinksWant to learn more about FUUZ? Check out the links below! Website: https://fuuz.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fuuz2/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJcJs6NTw3WM2tf6vgeKMbA

E12: Bridging IT and OT in Manufacturing: Real-Time Solutions

In this episode of The Manufacturing Matrix, Craig Scott, CEO of FUUZ, and Steve Modrall, EVP of Global Sales, tackle the critical challenges of aligning IT and OT in manufacturing. Discover why outdated equipment, budget constraints, and rigid ERP systems hinder real-time shop floor data collection and decision-making. Learn how FUUZ bridges the gap, driving collaboration and delivering scalable, actionable solutions. Perfect for manufacturers seeking efficiency and innovation!
00:00 Introduction to the Manufacturing Matrix01:08 Understanding IT and OT Dynamics02:19 Challenges in Pre-Sales Engagement04:39 The Tension Between IT and OT07:30 Identifying the Real Customer10:22 Bridging the Gap Between IT and OT12:44 The Unique Value of FUUZ15:00 Convergence at the MES Layer
Show LinksWant to learn more about FUUZ? Check out the links below! Website: https://fuuz.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fuuz2/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJcJs6NTw3WM2tf6vgeKMbA