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Don't risk digitalisation paralysis

09 January 2025

OPEN ANY issue of CDA and there is no shortage of inspiring digitalisation case studies, technology updates and thought leadership on the subject. However, the reality is that much of the UK's industrial sector – particularly SMEs – is at risk of falling behind when it comes to digitalisation.

Earlier this year, Made Smarter published a white paper - Digital Transformation: A Made Smarter Roadmap for SME Manufacturers – with the aim of mitigating the confusion around digital transformation which risks paralysis among SME manufacturers. In the foreword, Donna Edwards, director of the North West adoption programme, asserted businesses are hesitant to commit to change because they lack the confidence with technology and digital skills among leaders and employees. She also warned that delaying digital transformation risks being left further behind, or wasting time, effort and money.

The danger of 'option paralysis' has also been highlighted in recent research from IFS, which showed that of the 815 global manufacturing leaders surveyed, an astonishing 65% of respondents labelled themselves as ‘laggards,’ falling dangerously behind and stalled at the early stages of digital transformation with no firm plans in place. When asked to prioritise technologies, more than 80% of respondents listed every option as essential, underscoring the confusion that can prevent decisive action.

“The manufacturing industry is at a crossroads. Many understand the urgency but remain immobilised by indecision, waiting for proven results or guidance from a trusted partner before committing to action,” said Maggie Slowik, industry director, manufacturing at IFS. “The longer manufacturers delay, the further they fall behind. In today’s volatile market, resilience and digital maturity aren’t just advantages - they’re essential for survival.”

Addressing the bumps encountered on any digitalisation journey, on Tuesday18 March 2025 the Controls, Drives & Automation team is hosting a new one-day conference: Smarter Futures Live. The free-to-attend event, which will take place at the CBS Arena in Coventry, will provide valuable insight into the latest digital technologies and how to use them to enhance operational efficiency, increase productivity and ultimately improve your bottom line.

We already have some fantastic speakers lined up for the seminar programme from organisations including event sponsor Bosch Rexroth, Made Smarter, AMRC, People Led Digitalisation, Centre for Industrial Sustainability, and Digitalisation Shoestring.

Whether you are looking at taking your first steps or building on your current strategy, the conference is intended to help you develop your current adoption levels.

Registration  is open now at:

www.smarterfutureslive.com

 
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