Manufacturing organizations are under more pressure than ever to deliver operational excellence, manage costs, and drive growth—all while navigating a rapidly evolving technology landscape. From supply chain disruptions and workforce shortages to the need for faster, smarter IT deployments, the challenges are real and growing. That’s where Connection’s Technology Integration and Distribution Center (TIDC) steps in as a true partner, empowering manufacturers to modernize, optimize, and accelerate their IT service delivery.
Why Manufacturers Need a New IT Delivery Model
Today’s manufacturing IT teams face a perfect storm of challenges:
- Limited staffing and skill shortages
- Long lead times and supply chain disruptions
- High turnover and distributed workforces
- The need to support multiple platforms and remote locations
Traditional approaches to IT provisioning—such as piecemeal shipments, on-site staging, and manual configuration—simply can’t keep up with the pace of business. Manufacturers need a partner who can deliver end-to-end solutions that are fast, scalable, and reliable.
The TIDC Advantage
Connection’s TIDC is designed to be that partner. As Steven Crowthers, Vice President, Technology Integration and Distribution Center, explains, “The TIDC offers a full suite of services, from integration and logistics to final mile delivery. Our mission is to enhance the client experience and deliver a value proposition that benefits the entire manufacturing ecosystem.”
What does that look like in practice? Here are just a few ways TIDC is transforming IT delivery for manufacturers:
- Unbox and Go: Gone are the days of messy, multi-vendor shipments and on-site chaos. With Connection’s TIDC, equipment arrives pre-provisioned, tested, and ready to deploy. Whether it’s for a factory, warehouse, or remote worker, our solution streamlines integration, reduces packaging waste, and accelerates speed to value.
- Manufacturing in a Box: Every manufacturer is unique. Connection’s TIDC offers customizable solutions for every scenario, from new facility launches to remote onboarding. Highly trained engineers handle everything from design and discovery to packaging and delivery, ensuring a seamless end-user experience.
- Zero-touch Provisioning: With advanced imaging, tagging, and configuration, Connection’s TIDC enables plug-and-play deployments at scale. Facilities can be stood up in weeks, not months, with GPS-tracked shipments and precise delivery windows that keep projects on track.
Real-world Results
Greg Geeve, Enterprise Account Executive, Connection, describes the impact: “We work hand-in-hand with the TIDC from the earliest stages of a project, even before a building is constructed. Our teams collaborate to ensure every device, from endpoints to network switches, is delivered, configured, and ready to go. The result? We’ve reduced labor by 35% and cut installation times dramatically, creating real cost savings and growth opportunities for our customers.”
This partnership model isn’t about taking control away from IT teams. It’s about empowering them to focus on strategic initiatives while the TIDC handles the heavy lifting. Customers maintain oversight and involvement, but benefit from streamlined processes, reduced risk, and fewer surprises.
Efficiency, Savings, and Strategic Value
Outsourcing IT provisioning to Connection’s TIDC isn’t just about convenience. It’s a smart economic decision. As Steven notes, “We save clients money by reducing vendor management, increasing deployment speed, minimizing production disruptions, and lowering packaging costs. It’s a cost-effective, efficient way to accelerate modernization and automation projects.”
Greg adds, “Our services let customers invest in better technology instead of extra labor and infrastructure. With secure processes and precise documentation, we deliver innovation and real savings that are proven in every quarterly business review.”
Ready to Modernize Your Manufacturing IT Delivery?
The Connection TIDC is more than a service provider. It’s a strategic partner dedicated to helping manufacturers thrive in a complex, fast-moving world. Whether you’re launching a new facility, upgrading your workforce technology, or looking to streamline IT delivery, the TIDC has the expertise, solutions, and commitment to help you succeed. Want to learn more? Connect with your Account Team or engage our Manufacturing Practice to speak with a specialist.
Ryan Spurr
Ryan Spurr is the Director of Manufacturing Strategy and a Helix AI Advisory Director with 25 years of experience in manufacturing, information technology, and portfolio leadership. He leads Connection's Manufacturing practice, go-to-market strategy, client engagement, and advisory services focusing on artificial intelligence, information technology, and operational technology that make manufacturers more digitally excellent.
