Research reveals a perception versus reality gap for the UK manufacturing sector’s digital capabilities amidst Industry 4.0
The survey of senior business decision makers – including those within manufacturing businesses – found that more than a quarter (28.2%) still associate manufacturing with ‘assembly lines’, and a similar number (24.6%) associate it with ‘manual labour’.
The survey further revealed that only one in ten see any association between manufacturing and ‘Industry 4.0’, a term now popularly used to describe the increased use of web-connected industrial processes, which employs software, robotics and advanced automation for greater productivity, quality and efficiency.
Another statistic that makes a strong statement is that relating to the perception of manufacturing. Almost half of senior decision makers (48.7%) indicated that UK companies need to invest more in R&D to retain their high position in the global manufacturing market.
When asked what is required to support industry growth, over a third (35%) support a greater focus on attracting STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) to develop fresh talent and expertise to bolster industry growth.
