E-DATA Peer Learning Session with Hutchinson Engineering & Data Direct

Losing time searching for parts on the shop floor? You’re not alone.

In high-volume manufacturing, limited visibility of components and work-in-progress can slow down decision-making, increase costs, and create operational risk.

As part of the E-DATA Collaborative Network, we’re running a practical peer-learning webinar exploring how SMEs can move from manual tracking to real-time visibility.

This session will showcase how Hutchinson Engineering worked with DataDirect Intelligence to implement a Bluetooth-based tracking solution – reducing part-seeking time by 25% and improving operational efficiency.

Key insights:

• The E-DATA Advantage – How SMEs can access support and specialist expertise to support digitalisation

• Real-Time Tracking – How Bluetooth sensors and AI can provide instant visibility without manual checks

• Test Before You Invest – Using pilot zones to trial technology before full rollout

• Better Decisions, Faster – Moving from spreadsheets to live dashboards for planning and performance

E-DATA supports SMEs across Northern Ireland and in Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Cavan, Monaghan and Louth to improve efficiency through digital technology.

Through funded support, mentoring and peer learning, we help businesses explore, test and implement practical solutions.

This webinar is suitable for businesses who want to explore how bluetooth tracking and AI can help them improve visibility, reduce wasted time and scale operations.

Agenda

Introduction to E-DATA and how it helps SMEs modernise, digitalise, and decarbonise.

Speaker: Aodheen Dougan, E-DATA Collaborative Network Lead, Manufacturing NI

Aodheen leads Manufacturing NI’s delivery of the E-DATA Collaborative Network, supporting SME engagement, peer learning and connections into wider E-DATA support. She works with businesses, partners and stakeholders to help SMEs explore practical opportunities around digital transformation, data, AI and sustainability.

E-DATA provides funded support for micro, small, and medium-sized businesses. We help businesses operate more efficiently through tailored mentoring and practical, guided support to explore and implement digital technology.

Technology Spotlight: Exploring the use of Bluetooth (BLE) tags and AI for real-time tracking

Speaker: Owen Miller, Senior Business Development Manager, DataDirect Intelligence

Owen works with manufacturers and defence organisations to identify where operational data is falling short and what it costs when it does. He helps teams move from reactive problem-solving to real-time intelligence that can prevent issues before they become incidents.

DataDirect Intelligence is part of the Everlough Group, with experience deploying IoT solutions across manufacturing, transport, healthcare and critical infrastructure. Its Signal platform uses sensors and AI to monitor equipment, processes and operational movement, alerting the right person when something is out of place, overheating, delayed or drifting out of tolerance.

The Hutchinson Experience: real-world lessons from implementation

Speaker: Richard Hutchinson, Commercial Director, Hutchinson Engineering

Richard Hutchinson is Commercial Director at Hutchinson Engineering, a leading UK manufacturer supplying complex fabricated solutions to global machinery brands. With an engineering background and over 20 years’ experience in the family-founded business, Richard works across commercial strategy, manufacturing performance and data-driven decision-making.

Richard will share practical lessons from Hutchinson Engineering’s digital tracking journey, including how the business has used operational data, KPIs and digital tools to improve visibility, support capacity planning and make better evidence-based decisions.

Interactive Q&A

An open discussion on starting your digital journey, identifying bottlenecks, and choosing the right partners.