Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK) has unveiled the results of its highly anticipated 9th annual “State of Smart Manufacturing Report.” The comprehensive study, conducted globally, surveyed over 1,500 manufacturers across 17 of the world’s leading manufacturing countries, including significant players such as China, Japan, India, and South Korea.
The report offers insights into the evolving landscape of manufacturing, focusing on the adoption of cutting-edge technologies to drive resilience, enhance product quality, optimize workforce efficiency, and foster sustainable growth within the industry.
According to Cyril Perducat, Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Rockwell Automation, the findings underscore the critical importance of cultivating a skilled workforce and integrating technological advancements seamlessly into organizational culture to maintain competitiveness in today’s dynamic marketplace.
Key findings from the Asia Pacific region include a notable surge in investments in automation and artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies. In fact, a significant 69% of manufacturers in the region are gearing up to embrace smart manufacturing within the next 6 to 11 months, indicating a substantial 56% growth from the previous year.
Sustainability initiatives also take center stage, with a pronounced emphasis on energy management. A staggering 91% of APAC manufacturers have formal Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) policies in place, with cybersecurity emerging as a critical concern, ranking as the second-most sought-after skill by employers in the region.
Scott Wooldridge, Regional Vice President, Asia Pacific, Rockwell Automation, expressed optimism regarding the region’s rapid adoption of AI technologies, which are already yielding significant returns on investment for manufacturers. Wooldridge emphasized the opportunity for Asia to lead in reshaping the human-technology partnership, positioning technology as an enabler rather than a replacement for enhanced productivity and sustainable business outcomes.
Globally, the report indicates a widespread embrace of smart manufacturing technology, with a remarkable 95% of manufacturers either currently utilizing or evaluating such technologies. The focus remains on maintaining or expanding the workforce through strategic repurposing and hiring initiatives, despite the evolving technological landscape.
While the report identifies improved quality as a top positive outcome desired from smart manufacturing technology, it also sheds light on significant challenges. Change management emerges as a prominent obstacle, underscoring the need for effective strategies to align technology and talent with organizational goals.
For the first time, cybersecurity features prominently among the top external risks for manufacturers globally, highlighting the increasing importance of safeguarding digital infrastructure. Additionally, energy management emerges as a critical factor in sustainability and ESG programs.
In conclusion, Rockwell Automation reaffirms its commitment to leveraging industry expertise and its expansive PartnerNetwork™ to support global manufacturers on their digital transformation journey. The company aims to empower organizations to navigate the complexities of the modern manufacturing landscape, driving long-term growth, resilience, and sustainability.
