AI pilot era separates those can and can’t execute artificial intelligence

The article highlights the long-past questioning phase about whether companies should invest in the digital transformation, emphasizing that we are now in a stage where digital transition is essential for competitiveness.
According to Rockwell Automation’s “2026 State of Smart Manufacturing Report,” digital transformation and AI deployment are no longer optional; they have become a requirement for staying competitive.
The report, which surveyed 1,560 decision-makers across 17 countries, shows that 90% of respondents view digital transformation as a crucial business imperative.
Currently, 59% of operations are using smart manufacturing technologies at scale, whereas only 18% remain in pilot mode, reflecting the transition from early experimental phases.
AI and Machine Learning (ML) are projected to be the leading drivers of outcomes, with 34% of operations currently augmented by AI and the expectation to reach 54% by 2030.
The article argues that operational resilience and effective use of data are vital, with 46% experiencing cyber incidents in the past year, and only 43% effectively utilizing their operational data.
The real competitive advantage now lies with organizations that can execute digital transformation effectively, largely driven by their ability to build the necessary systems and reskill their workforce.