In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer interviews Michael Lynch, the founder of Praxi, a company pioneering the future of digital transformation in manufacturing. Michael's journey from Broadway to technology innovation is a testament to creativity and transformation. Praxi aims to solve the problem of ad hoc processes and excessive use of Excel in manufacturing companies by providing a digital transformation platform that allows for the creation of customized software solutions at a low cost. The culture at Praxi emphasizes respect, collaboration, and a focus on solving customer problems. The platform helps improve internal culture at manufacturing facilities by digitizing lean processes, promoting continuous improvement, and providing real-time visibility into performance. In this conversation, Michael Lynch shares advice for manufacturers going through digital transformation, emphasizing the importance of starting simple and focusing on critical metrics and lean methodologies. He highlights the flexibility of the Praxi platform in digitizing processes and utilizing AI to optimize workflows. Lynch also discusses the need for companies to embrace digital transformation to stay competitive and take advantage of productivity gains. He encourages individuals to embrace lifelong learning and leverage the knowledge available through technology. Finally, he provides insights on improving company culture, including conducting anonymous interviews, flattening the organization, and clarifying cultural norms. Takeaways Praxi is pioneering the future of digital transformation in manufacturing by providing a low-cost, customizable software platform. The culture at Praxi emphasizes respect, collaboration, and a focus on solving customer problems. The platform helps improve culture at manufacturing facilities by digitizing lean processes, promoting continuous improvement, and providing real-time visibility into performance. Digital transformation is a joint effort between the human aspects and technology, and Praxi offers coaching support throughout the journey. Start simple and focus on key metrics and lean methodologies when undergoing digital transformation. The Praxi platform offers flexibility in digitizing processes and utilizing AI to optimize workflows. Embrace digital transformation to stay competitive and take advantage of productivity gains. Lifelong learning is essential in acquiring new skills and knowledge.Company culture can be improved through anonymous interviews, flattening the organization, and clarifying cultural norms. Chapters 00:00 Introduction00:54 Michael Lynch's Journey05:13 Praxi and Digital Transformation in Manufacturing08:31 Culture at Praxi10:57 Praxi's Impact on Manufacturing Culture17:35 Advice for Manufacturers on Digital Transformation20:35 Staying Ahead of the Curve in Manufacturing and Tech31:45 Attracting People to Manufacturing34:04 Improving Company Culture34:46 Flattening the Organization35:10 Clarifying Cultural Norms35:44 Contact Information36:22 Closing Remarks Connect with Michael on Linkedin Watch Michael on this amazing clip from the TV show, General Hospital on YouTube Looking to boost engagement in your workplace? Meet Teamforce.ai, your partner in transforming employee experiences. Their innovative kiosk-based solution is designed especially for deskless workforces in manufacturing, distribution, and healthcare. Teamforce.ai measures and enhances engagement, ensuring every team member is heard and valued. Ready to see the difference? Visit themfgconnector.com and learn more about how Teamforce.ai can elevate your organization. Are your tools organized and protected? Discover Kaiser Manufacturing, the ultimate solution in tool management. Their Kaizen Shadow Foam® allows you to create custom foam inserts tailored exactly for your needs, and their Tool Caddy offers a safe, compact storage option for all your tool holders. Improve your efficiency an