Study uncovers ‘integration gap’ of Ind 4.0 technology

UK manufacturers are investing in trials of Industry 4.0 technologies but this so-called ‘integration gap’ could mean UK industry is at risk of missing out on growth opportunities emanating from the current phase of recovery.

More than half (56 per cent) of senior-level decision makers at UK manufacturing businesses confirmed they had achieved digital transformation in certain business functions. Further analysis of the findings established that very few had taken the next step by integrating the technologies across all business functions. The study concluded that, in almost all cases, digital transformation programmes had in fact only reached an ‘initial stage’.

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In a statement, Alec McCullie, partner and digital technology specialist at Vendigital, said: “UK manufacturers are aware of the benefits that Industry 4.0 technologies can bring in terms of driving productivity and streamlining business processes. However, the distinct nature of the technologies and the perceived complexities associated with their application, can make it difficult to get a clear view of the benefits they bring.