Why manufacturers need a phased approach to digital transformation: those that succeed with this difficult work break it into three stages, each with its own guiding metrics

Abstract

Digital transformation can be particularly complex in manufacturing because it requires the multistaged integration of physical assets with digital technologies. The authors' research finds that manufacturers that succeed in adopting transformative tech take a three-stage approach — making efficiency gains, leveling up digital capabilities, and then growing via innovation — and that they apply the right metrics during each stage.