CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 1 2024 13 Nov23414 Based in Hull, DataFlowIQ is a software company dedicated to driving the digitalisation of manufacturing companies by providing them with an easy-to-use digital infrastructure that integrates seamlessly with their processes. The company is headed by skilled IT professional Craig Douglas, CEO, who has been named API & Data Integration CEO of the Year, East Yorkshire, in the CEO of the Year Awards 2023. Here, we speak to him to find out more about DataFlowIQ. Having served as the backbone of the world’s economies for centuries, the manufacturing industry is no stranger to transformation. It has been forced to adapt and evolve continuously in order to keep up with the endless developments in automation, labour practices, and technologies. With digitalisation on the rise, it seems that data and analytics may be the next agent of change in manufacturing. With over 15 years of experience in its field, DataFlowIQ offers a holistic suite of digital services that manufacturers can utilise to seamlessly incorporate technology into their processes. For example, it offers a next-generation integration platform designed to empower factories with efficiency and innovation. Through this user-friendly, affordable, and effective solution, the company facilitates sustainable manufacturing practices through optimised processes, resource utilisation, and machine energy monitoring. With DataFlowIQ, clients can leverage integration options for almost any scenario, including OData, REST, SOAP, Excel/CSV via Email/SFTP, HTTPS scraping, MQTT, AMQP, OPC, and SQL. This enables them to seamlessly connect their systems, services, and data. From cloud platforms to on-premise, from IoT devices to PLCs emailing CSVs, and from Databases to SFTP, the platform makes it easier for clients to manage and control their manufacturing processes and operations. Moreover, with DataFlowIQ’s integrated database, clients can compile their business data into a single managed data store. This allows them to easily gain insights into their operations and inform their decisions by connecting Business Intelligence platforms or integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning tools with this database. Lastly, DataFlowIQ allows clients to view their operational data in real-time from anywhere in the world. They can do this through web dashboards, on their phones, or on live screens in their factories, call centres, sales floors, and any other KPI driven team environments. The platform also sends alerts by email and SMS. On top of this, it can connect to physical signal towers and control buttons, enabling clients to gain visibility like never before. As CEO of DataFlowIQ, Craig Douglas is tasked with spearheading the company’s mission to empower manufacturers with scalable and robust digital backbones, enabling seamless integration, real-time insights, and a platform for innovation and optimisation. He shares, “Our industry outlook emphasises the strategic use of IIoT, integration solutions, and advanced data analysis to optimise operational workflows and drive sustainable growth.” With extensive experience in IT, software development, and managerial positions, Craig is well-equipped to lead DataFlowIQ. Throughout his career, he has orchestrated numerous multi-millionpound projects within the manufacturing sector, developing solutions and platforms for cloud-based services. Furthermore, he has led multiple technology roadmaps and worked to develop strategies for a number of large manufacturing companies, integrating and streamlining their processes. In this, he has successfully increased their turnovers from £20 million to £800 million. “My career trajectory has been shaped by significant roles at Wren Kitchens and ilke Homes, where I orchestrated transformative technological advancements in manufacturing and construction,” Craig comments. “As CEO, I’d like to believe I embody the qualities of strategic foresight, adaptability, team leadership, and a deep-rooted understanding of the industry and customer needs. These qualities, I believe, are crucial for navigating the complexities of our dynamic industry landscape.” Craig prides himself on his unique style of leadership that combines strategic guidance with empowerment to create a work environment centred around innovation. He also draws inspiration from the experiences that drove his own personal and professional growth, which highlighted to him the importance of open communication, collaboration, and adaptability. He believes that fostering these qualities amongst his employees enables them to effectively navigate challenges and embrace opportunities. Furthermore, at the core of DataFlowIQ are four key values: innovation, reliability, customer-centricity, and adaptability. Firstly, Craig believes that innovation is truly the cornerstone of the company’s ethos, driving his team to constantly push boundaries and deliver groundbreaking solutions. Moreover, reliability underscores its commitment to consistency and quality in its services, whilst customercentricity guides its team to tailor their offerings to meet clients’ unique needs. Lastly, DataFlowIQ’s values have evolved over time to also encompass adaptability, which enables it to effectively and efficiently respond to developments in the industry. As an IT company, this is particularly important since technology is continuously advancing. To stay ahead of competitors, Craig ensures that DataFlowIQ is always engaged in research and development. He also leads the company to proactively adopt emerging technologies and customise its solutions to meet the diverse and evolving needs of manufacturers. In recruitment, Craig seeks individuals who resonate with these values, fostering a diverse yet cohesive team. They must also fit in with the company’s culture of creativity, collaboration, and problemsolving. “Staff members play a pivotal role in propelling our innovation, contributing their expertise and passion to the company’s growth,” Craig explains. “To aspiring individuals, I advise cultivating a strong understanding of both technology and manufacturing, fostering curiosity, and embracing adaptability.” For his outstanding work as CEO of DataFlowIQ, Craig has been awarded the title of API & Data Integration CEO of the Year, East Yorkshire, in the CEO of the Year Awards 2023. On the future, Craig shares, “Looking ahead, our plans for the next 12 months include an expansion into AI-driven analytics for predictive maintenance and quality capture, aiming to further optimise manufacturing processes. Additionally, we aim to enhance our integration capabilities across various manufacturing domains, ensuring a more comprehensive and seamless digital infrastructure.” With ambitious plans, there is no doubt that Craig and his team at DataFlowIQ look towards a bright future, and we wish them the best of luck in the years to come. Contact: Craig Douglas Web Address: www.dataflowiq.com
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