Why going digital is still a challenge for factories*

2026-02-06 · Source: Tech Monitor · Field: Manufacturing & Industrial — Smart Manufacturing & Industry 4.0, Industrial Network Infrastructure, Automation & Robotics · Depth: Intermediate, short

Summary

Many manufacturers are investing heavily in digital tools, with the global IoT market in manufacturing projected to grow from $116.5 billion in 2024 to over $674 billion by 2032, and 95% planning AI/ML investments. Despite this, many organizations are not achieving expected results due to reliance on legacy network infrastructures like Wi-Fi and wired connections. These outdated networks act as "hidden bottlenecks," limiting scalability, bandwidth, performance, reliability, and security, especially in complex industrial environments. The article highlights that a purpose-built network, such as private 5G, is a foundational enabler for digital transformation, offering enhanced scalability, superior performance, improved security, operational flexibility, and cost-effectiveness to fully leverage digital investments and achieve competitive advantage.

Key takeaway

For CTOs and VPs of Engineering overseeing manufacturing operations, your existing network infrastructure is likely a hidden bottleneck preventing full ROI from digital investments. You should prioritize assessing your current network capabilities and strategically deploying purpose-built solutions like private 5G to ensure your facilities are future-ready and can scale digital initiatives seamlessly.

Key insights

Legacy networks are hidden bottlenecks hindering manufacturing digital transformation, necessitating purpose-built solutions like private 5G.

Principles

• Network infrastructure is a strategic asset.
• Digital transformation requires IT/OT collaboration.

Method

Rethink network strategy by deploying purpose-built solutions like private 5G to overcome limitations of legacy infrastructure and enable full benefits of advanced manufacturing technologies.

In practice

• Assess current network capabilities.
• Consider private 5G for industrial environments.

Topics

• Private 5G Networks
• Manufacturing Digital Transformation
• Industrial IoT
• Legacy Network Infrastructure
• Industry 4.0

Best for: CTO, VP of Engineering/Data, Director of AI/ML, Executive, IT Professional, Operations Professional

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Tech Monitor.