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Walker Reynolds & Zack Scriven

Walker Reynolds & Zack Scriven share knowledge and insights on Industry 4.0, IIoT, and Digital Transformation in this podcast from 4.0 Solutions. Support this podcast by checking out our Free / Paid courses at https://www.iiot.university

4.0 Solutions Podcast

In this episode of the Industry 4.0 Podcast, your hosts, Walker D. Reynolds and Zack Scriven, tackle the hottest topics and questions from the Industry 4.0 community. From exploring Rockwell's FactoryTalk Optix platform to breaking down the concept of a Unified Namespace (UNS) as the single source of truth, we leave no stone unturned. Highlights include: Walker's first impressions of FactoryTalk Optix and its challenges with content creation restrictions. A sneak peek into the upcoming ProveIt! Conference (Feb 18-20, 2025) in Dallas, TX, showcasing groundbreaking solutions from 35 vendors. An overview of Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), their core components, and how to get started with implementation. Selecting the right MQTT broker and understanding the importance of digital fluency in modern manufacturing. Addressing the community's burning questions about CMMS integration, MES buy vs. build, and the role of OPC servers in digital transformation. Plus, Zack and Walker discuss strategies to build teams, empower leaders, and ensure organizations are ready for the digital future. Tune in for practical insights, honest opinions, and actionable advice from the leaders of the Industry 4.0 movement. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and join the conversation on our Industry 4.0 Community Discord!

Industry 4.0 Deep Dive: Answering Community Questions

In this episode, Walker Reynolds and Zack Scriven tackle the three most common questions they receive from the Industry 4.0 community. From choosing the right technology to implementing a Unified Namespace and navigating digital transformation strategies, they provide actionable insights and clear answers to help you on your journey. If you're looking for practical advice to solve real-world manufacturing challenges, this episode is for you. Don't miss it!

Industry 4.0 Podcast: The Most Common 3 Questions we get

Dive into the world of Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) with this special MES Bootcamp Webinar. Join Walker Reynolds and Zack Scriven as they explore:

 • What MES truly is and why "MES is not MES."

 • The Core Four Features every MES system needs and how they drive operational excellence.

 • Real-world examples of MES implementations, from tracking downtime to managing unique workflows for flexible manufacturing.

 • The difference between MES and MOM (Manufacturing Operations Management).

Learn how to start building your MES capabilities using open platforms, Unified Namespace, MQTT, and Python, and get a sneak peek into the 8-Week MES Bootcamp Accelerator launching in January. Whether you're new to MES or looking to enhance your knowledge, this episode delivers actionable insights to transform your operations.

MES Bootcamp Webinar: Building the Core of Manufacturing Execution

In this episode of the 4.0 Solutions Podcast, Walker Reynolds and Zack Scriven take a deep dive into the evolving landscape of Industry 4.0. From AI's transformative impact to behind-the-scenes insights on the upcoming ProveIt Conference, this discussion is packed with valuable takeaways.

Learn about the mistakes vendors are making, uncover strategies for success in digital transformation, and discover the must-attend ProveIt sessions that will shape the future of manufacturing and industrial automation.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the Industry 4.0 space, Walker and Zack bring their expertise and passion to deliver an engaging and informative episode.

Timestamps:

0:00 • - Industry 4.0 Mode (Ft. Zack Scriven)

2:52 • - Podcast Starts

4:45 • - AI Conversation

10:51 • - ProveIt Conference Discussion

16:20 • - The Mistake Vendors Are Making

19:20 • - ProveIt Deep Dive

24:28 • - Issues with Vendors

32:55 • - Top ProveIt Sessions to Look Out For

Subscribe to the 4.0 Solutions Podcast and join Walker Reynolds and Zack Scriven as they share actionable insights and stories that empower businesses to thrive in the era of digital transformation!

AI in Manufacturing - Industry 4.0 Live Q&A - Jan 3, 2025

Final Podcast before the conference! We go over schedule, hot takes on all the vendor sponsors, and Walker shares a vulnerable update. don't want to miss this one!

ProveIt! Conference 2025 - Final Podcast before the show!

Zack and Walker talk about their thoughts following the ProveIt! conference including what vendors they were the most impressed with!

ProveIt! Conference 2025 - Reactions Podcast

Zack Scriven and Walker Reynolds discuss how to expand your digital transformation fluency.

Expanding digital transformation fluency

UNS and Community Updates Live Stream Episode Highlights:

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Hosts: Walker Reynolds and Zack Scriven
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Sponsor: Maintain X
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Duration: Approximately 2 hours
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0:00-15:00: Podcast Introduction and Personal Updates

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Walker explains recent absence from content creation
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Discusses overwhelming number of messages and new communication strategy
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Personal updates: son's graduation, upcoming wedding, ranch development
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15:00-30:00: Industry Trends and Market Observations

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Discussion on building automation and Department of Defense (DoD) digital transformation
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Predictions about vendor democratization in DoD
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Emerging opportunities in government technology sectors
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30:00-45:00: Prove It 2026 Announcement

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Event details:
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* Dates: February 16-20 *

Location: Hyatt Regency Dallas at Reunion Tower *

Expected attendees: 1,000-1,200 *

Vendor spots: 36 of 50 confirmed *

Estimated ticket price: $750

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Three virtual factories planned
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New event structure with dual-track sessions
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45:00-60:00: Technology and Unified Namespace (UNS)

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Deep dive into UNS architecture
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Discussion of communication protocols
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Exploration of agentic AI potential
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Critique of current data modeling approaches
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60:00-90:00: Technical Deep Dive

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Demonstration of UNS simulator
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Discussion of edge connectivity
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Insights into AI agent interactions
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Importance of data infrastructure in digital transformation
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90:00-120:00: Industry Critique and Community Values

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Critique of current governance boards in manufacturing
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Importance of practical manufacturing experience
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Discussion of technology vendor approaches
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Emphasis on community-driven innovation
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Key Takeaways:

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UNS is critical for digital transformation
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Practical experience matters more than theoretical knowledge
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DoD and government sectors are undergoing significant digital changes
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Transparency and accountability are crucial in technology development
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Upcoming Events:

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Siemens Developer Days (May 27-28)
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Critical Manufacturing Summit (June 12-13)
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Edge Connectivity Workshop (June 17-19)
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Call to Action:

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Interested integrators can apply for upcoming training program
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Provide feedback on Prove It 2026 plans
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Follow 4.0 Solutions for continued insights
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Memorable Quotes:

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"UNS is the structure of your business and all the events"
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"The most important people in any manufacturing operation are those who do the actual work"
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Recommended Resources:

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Virtual Factory Online (for UNS examples)
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4.0 Solutions Discord and LinkedIn
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Unified Namespace and Community Updates Part 1/2

Unified Namespace and Community Updates Part 2/2

Walker Reynolds is NOT changing for anyone... here's WHY Key Segments:

 1. 

Authenticity and Language
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Discussion on using authentic, colorful language in professional settings
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Defending use of occasional profanity as a communication tool
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Arguing that authentic communication respects the audience's intelligence
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 1. 

Critique of Language Policing
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Responding to criticism from Peter Huma about language use
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Explaining why filtering language diminishes communication effectiveness
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Highlighting that high performers and executives often use direct language
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 1. 

Value of Frontline Workers
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Arguing frontline workers are the most valuable organizational assets
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Discussing how authentic communication bridges leadership gaps
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Emphasizing workers generate significantly more value than their cost
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 1. 

Technical Discussion: Agentic AI and Unified Namespace
 2. 

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Exploring limitations of current AI agent connections
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Explaining importance of capturing all data events
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Critiquing deterministic modeling approaches
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Memorable Quotes:

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"If you use language in private that you don't use in public, then you lack authenticity."
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"The most valuable people in an organization are the frontline workers."
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"I am not speaking to the person who's going to be offended by the delivery of the message, I'm speaking to the person who's going to hear the message."
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Recommended for: Manufacturing professionals, technology leaders, AI enthusiasts, communication strategists

Walker Reynolds isn't changing language for anyone.. and responding to LinkedIn Comments

4.0 Podcast listeners, listen up!

If your plant floor still speaks in mystery Modbus and legacy PLC grunts while leadership wants shiny AI dashboards, the Edge Connectivity → UNS Workshop—live online June 17‑19, 2025—is your shortcut. In three hands‑on sessions we’ll show you how to hook any asset, clean the data, and stream it straight into a Unified Namespace your MES, BI, and AI apps can actually use. Because you’re part of the podcast crew, use code PODCAST40 at checkout for 40 % off, but only until May 31.

Hit the link, claim your seat, and turn mystery data into real‑time insight—before your competition even knows what hit them.
https://www.iiot.university/offers/jwyzWAMM?coupon_code=PODCAST40

The Future of PLC Programming and Integration: Unified Namespace

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