Why your mill can't afford to ignore data-driven production

Data-driven mills win—cutting downtime, boosting decisions, and staying ahead in a competitive market.

Mills embracing data-driven production are gaining a clear edge by streamlining operations, minimizing disruptions, and making faster, smarter decisions. And momentum is building. 

Global management consulting firm BCG reports that over 80% of companies are accelerating digital transformation, with digital leaders achieving 1.8x higher earnings growth and more than twice the increase in enterprise value. For mills, leveraging real-time insights is no longer optional; it’s essential to stay competitive. 

“Data is no longer the issue; the challenge is using it for actionable insights before someone else does,” emphasizes Tapani Tilus, Chief Technology Officer at Raute. “With veneer, plywood, and LVL (laminated veneer lumber) mills moving from isolated lines to a connected network, the true advantage comes when you can immediately act on data today to save time, money, and resources tomorrow.” 
 
Maximizing Efficiency with Smart Analytics 
 
Today’s machines collect data every ten milliseconds, but much of that information often remains siloed until advanced data-driven systems bring it together. When integration happens smoothly, operators gain real-time insights that optimize mill performance and keep them a step ahead of competitors.  
 
Looking forward, the arrival of AI promises to accelerate this transformation. “As automation handles more routine tasks, frontline workers will transition toward roles centered on data interpretation and decision-making,” Tilus predicts. Smart grading systems already achieve at least 95% accuracy compared with roughly 70% for manual checks, and AI-enhanced vision tools will only improve these metrics. 
 
“AI isn’t here to replace skilled operators; it’s here to empower them,” reassures Tilus. “By combining machine learning models and neural networks with intuitive dashboards, teams can spot trends and anomalies early, prioritize maintenance, and make informed choices faster.” Operators will continue to oversee production via easy-to-read screens, adjusting parameters and focusing on areas where human judgment adds the most value. 
 
Predictive maintenance, powered by AI algorithms, will become standard practice. “Sensors that measure current and temperature can flag maintenance needs before a failure occurs, cutting unplanned downtime and boosting machine availability,” notes Tilus. “This proactive stance not only keeps mills running smoothly but also reduces the environmental footprint associated with spare parts and emergency repairs.” 
 
Ensuring Sustainability through End-to-End Traceability 
 
“Tracking wood from the forest to the mill is mandatory to meet regulations or customer expectations,” Tilus warns. Mills that haven’t implemented traceability face the real danger of losing business. Having data entries throughout the entire lifespan, using technology such as blockchain, creates live sustainability dashboards that can provide data on everything regarding the final product. 
 
Sustainability metrics extend beyond supply-chain transparency. Data insights help mills minimize raw material waste during peeling and drying. “Moisture analyzers cut rework by up to 10% before sheets even reach the dryer,” Tilus explains. Analyzers control the material flow to enable continuous refinement to eliminate inefficiencies, supporting the circular economy. 
 
“Different operators can have an impact on resource use in varied ways,” Tilus adds. “Data-based training aligns their choices with both environmental goals and production targets. The data from Raute’s MillSIGHTS platform can be used by teams to run “what-if” scenarios, like adjusting dryer temperature or speed to save energy while maintaining sheet quality, so every decision advances both productivity and eco-efficiency.” 
 
“To keep mills running efficiently and sustainably, it’s important to bring together systems for production, maintenance, and quality into one connected data network,” Tilus explains. With the help of innovative analytics, mills can make better choices, like improving equipment lifecycle and optimizing all resources. 
 
“Data isn’t the challenge anymore; it’s how we use it that matters,” Tilus adds. Choosing data-driven sustainability goes beyond cutting emissions or saving materials. It’s about preparing for the future, appealing to responsible customers, and building strong, adaptable mills that can succeed in a changing world.” 

Ready to Act? The mills that embrace data-driven production today will define tomorrow’s standards. Those who hesitate risk becoming obsolete.