Murata Manufacturing highlights its diverse data science initiatives, focusing on the people, organizations, and training involved. Three members of the Data & Analytics Department share their hands-on experiences in applying data science to various sectors of the company.
At Murata, the Data & Analytics Department is pivotal in solving challenges and optimizing processes using data science. These efforts extend beyond manufacturing and design to areas such as marketing, IoT devices, healthcare, and emerging businesses.
In collaboration with production facilities, data science is leveraged to enhance efficiency and tackle problems. For example, data science is used to automate production planning and detect anomalies in products during inspections, addressing issues with human inconsistencies.
Higashi, an expert in the field, shared: “Murata’s extensive data collection across millions of products produced daily presents a rare opportunity to work with large-scale data. This environment facilitates collaboration between teams to quickly implement data science solutions for operational improvements.”
Murata also applies data science in marketing and sales. A web analytics tool developed internally helps marketing managers uncover customer preferences and suggest optimal products. Additionally, an AI system streamlines customer inquiries by assigning them to the most appropriate department, improving response time and satisfaction.
Nakano, a team member, said: “When I joined Murata, I was surprised to see data science applied to sales and marketing, beyond just manufacturing. The freedom to generate ideas and apply them quickly in this environment is a major attraction.”
In addition to electronic components, Murata is expanding into hardware products, software, and services, especially in industries such as healthcare. Data acquisition, analysis, and AI model development are essential to enhance product performance in these new ventures.
Matsui, a data scientist, remarked: “At Murata, we can work closely with hardware development teams to consider the data we need for new products, ensuring a fast-paced approach to tackling business challenges.”
Murata’s data science initiatives thrive through both internal and external collaborations. The Data & Analytics Department works closely with experts from various fields within the company and collaborates with external professionals in new industries.
Higashi emphasized the importance of internal collaboration: “By engaging directly with those handling data at the production sites, we gain valuable insights that numbers alone can’t provide. This communication is key to solving problems effectively.” Nakano added, “At Murata, there’s a sense of ownership, and we can drive projects quickly. It’s a highly satisfying environment for those who enjoy problem-solving.”
Murata’s Data & Analytics Department fosters a culture of continuous learning and skill-sharing. The department hosts events like hackathons and internal Kaggle competitions to stimulate innovation and technical growth.
Matsui shared: “Hackathons and Kaggle competitions push us to solve problems quickly and improve our technical abilities. These events are integral to our development and help exchange valuable ideas.” Furthermore, Murata offers robust post-employment training to ensure employees stay up-to-date with the latest technologies, dedicating 20% of their time to continuous learning.
Murata also emphasizes on-the-job training, with senior colleagues offering guidance to those new to data science. Nakano explained how the company’s OJT system helped him transition into data science: “My mentor guided me through the advanced analysis methods, and now I’m training new employees to build and implement AI models for real projects.”
Murata’s commitment to data science extends to providing in-person support at each facility, ensuring that teams understand how to leverage data for problem-solving. Higashi shared: “We conduct hands-on training sessions at our plants, which create a collaborative atmosphere and foster excitement for data science.”
Murata also encourages team members to initiate study sessions, promoting the exchange of ideas and techniques. Nakano reflected on his experience: “At Murata, you’re encouraged to propose your own ideas and lead projects. For example, I initiated an AI review meeting that has now grown into a key activity for our manufacturing departments.”
Murata’s ongoing investment in data science is evident in its strong organizational structure, which supports both technological advancements and employee development. This investment enhances the company’s market position in electronic components, creating a virtuous cycle of applying data science to improve manufacturing, inspection, and service operations.
Murata’s unique environment allows employees to approach problems from both a hardware and data perspective, making it a standout place for data science. With access to vast data sources and diverse hardware components, Murata continues to lead the way in leveraging data science for hardware solutions.
