Manufacturing leading other sectors for digital transformation

Three-in-ten (62%) manufacturing leaders may view digital transformation as the biggest challenge facing their sector, yet 77% see the ‘megatrend’ as playing a crucial role in the future of their business.

Almost all (98%) of the nearly 1,200 respondents stated that digital transformation is already affecting their business, and a similar amount (92%) are adopting measures now to take advantage of new digital technologies.

The study, commissioned by Fujitsu, polled leaders from medium to large-sized companies across Europe, the US and Australia about the challenges and changes brought about by future digital transformation.

Taking into account views from across manufacturing, retail, finance and the public sector, the research show manufacturers in particular are “enthusiastic and excited” about the prospects of digitalisation, with most (80%) of those viewing it as positive not only to their company but the sector as a whole.

Christof Schleidt, director for business development and digital transformation at Fujitsu commented: “Manufacturers are very positive about any changes the digital transformation will be effecting. Many of the managers see themselves as leading in that sector.

“Technology and innovation are for many of them the key to success. At the same time, they are distinctly aware that they have to do much more to harness all the chances the digital transformation contains. This includes for example to establish new strategic partnerships.”

Schleidt’s comments are bourne out by theresearch, with collaboration cited as being vital for mastering the digital change. Already, more than a third (36%) of respondents are concentrating on developing crucial partnerships with so-called ‘early adopters’.