Executive Summary
As manufacturing companies grow, technology often becomes more complex — and more fragile. Many organizations in the 20–250 employee range focus on production efficiency and expansion while overlooking foundational IT best practices. The result is higher risk, slower operations, and technology that struggles to keep pace with growth. This article outlines three commonly ignored IT best practices, why they matter, and how manufacturers can avoid costly technology mistakes as they scale.
Why IT Best Practices Matter for Growing Manufacturers
Manufacturing environments rely on uptime, data accuracy, and operational consistency. When IT is treated as a reactive support function instead of a strategic component of operations, small issues can quickly turn into production delays, security incidents, or compliance gaps.
Ignoring core IT best practices often doesn't cause immediate failure — but it creates hidden risk that surfaces at the worst possible time.
Best Practice #1: Standardizing Systems Before Scaling
Why It Matters
As manufacturers add employees, equipment, locations, or applications, inconsistencies compound. Different systems, configurations, and workflows make environments harder to support and easier to break.
How It Impacts the Business
- Slower onboarding for new employees
- Increased downtime due to configuration conflicts
- Higher IT support costs
- Reduced visibility across operations
What Companies Can Do
- Standardize endpoints, operating systems, and core applications
- Document configurations and processes
- Limit one-off technology decisions that create long-term complexity
How an MSP Helps
An MSP helps manufacturers design and enforce standardized environments that scale predictably. This includes infrastructure planning, device management, and application alignment across the organization.
Best Practice #2: Planning for Security and Compliance Early
Why It Matters
Manufacturers are increasingly targeted by ransomware and supply chain attacks. Growth expands the attack surface, especially when legacy systems and new tools coexist without proper oversight.
How It Impacts the Business
- Production downtime from cyber incidents
- Potential loss of sensitive customer or supplier data
- Insurance and compliance challenges
- Reputational damage
What Companies Can Do
- Implement baseline security controls before growth accelerates
- Review access permissions regularly
- Align IT security with operational risk, not just compliance checklists
How an MSP Helps
A strategic MSP integrates security into everyday operations, helping manufacturers scale safely without disrupting production or introducing unnecessary friction.
Best Practice #3: Treating IT as a Strategic Planning Function
Why It Matters
Many growing manufacturers rely on reactive IT support — fixing problems as they occur. This approach doesn't scale and often leads to rushed, expensive decisions.
How It Impacts the Business
- Unplanned technology spending
- Bottlenecks during expansion or acquisitions
- IT teams stuck in firefighting mode
- Missed opportunities for efficiency gains
What Companies Can Do
- Develop an IT roadmap aligned with business goals
- Budget for technology proactively
- Involve IT leadership in operational planning discussions
How an MSP Helps
An MSP provides strategic guidance, roadmapping, and advisory support, helping leadership teams make informed technology decisions that support long-term growth.
Best Practices and Key Takeaways
- Growth magnifies existing IT weaknesses.
- Standardization reduces complexity and cost.
- Security planning must scale with operations.
- IT should support business strategy, not react to it.
- A strategic MSP helps manufacturers avoid common technology pitfalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common IT mistakes growing manufacturers make?
Failing to standardize systems, underestimating security risk, and treating IT as a reactive support function.
When should a manufacturer start planning IT strategy?
Before growth accelerates. Early planning reduces rework, downtime, and unexpected costs.
How does an MSP support manufacturing growth?
An MSP provides standardized infrastructure, security oversight, and strategic planning aligned with operational goals.
Is IT strategy only for large manufacturers?
No. Companies in the 20–250 employee range often benefit the most from structured IT planning.
Closing
Technology plays a critical role in manufacturing efficiency, security, and scalability. By addressing these commonly ignored IT best practices early, growing manufacturers can reduce risk, control costs, and build a technology foundation that supports long-term success.
Every business faces IT challenges, but you don't have to navigate them alone. Core Managed helps businesses secure their data, scale efficiently, and stay compliant. If you're struggling with any of the issues discussed in this blog, let's talk. Give us a call today at 888-890-2673 or contact us here to schedule a chat.