Ryan’s Quality Meats one of many South West businesses to benefit from DPIRD Shoestring Digital pilot

A Bunbury butcher has benefited from a State Government digital technology program, which has improved their ability to reduce waste. Ryan’s Quality Meats, which has operations both in Davenport and Jandakot, has implemented automatic product counting technology during processing to alert staff in real time to prevent overproduction. It is one of a number of South West businesses which have benefited from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s Shoestring Digital program, with Shelter Brewing Co. in Busselton and Cowaramup’s Howard Park Wines also participating. The program is designed to overcome constraints and find new opportunities for businesses by helping them implement digital technologies which are low cost and low risk. It is being rolled out in collaboration with multiple organisations and businesses, with Cambridge University being engaged to deliver Digital Manufacturing on a Shoestring training sessions to help small businesses examine the opportunities available. DPIRD project officer Felipe Barria said participants could access a numerous tools, resources, and support services for their businesses. “The Shoestring Digital program uses cost effective, accessible technology to help businesses automate work processes and generate data to assist business decision making,” he said. “Businesses can select from existing solutions, modify or design new solutions to help businesses monitor input costs and equipment, automate work instructions, identify and report issues and to monitor capacity.” Eight agrifood and beverage businesses in the State participated in a pilot version of the program, including the three South West enterprises. Mr Barria highlighted increased productivity and confidence with using digital technologies among the pilot participants. Businesses interested in participating can register to join through the DPIRD website, with a webinar to be held on July 30.