Digital Transformation Now Critical for Nine in Ten Manufacturers, Global Study Finds

## Digital Transformation Imperative Grows Across Industrial Sectors Nine out of ten manufacturers now consider digital transformation essential to their operations, according to the newly released 'State of Smart Manufacturing Report 2026' published by Rockwell Automation (NYSE: ROK), the world's largest industrial automation company. The report, released on 19 May 2026, underscores a broad industrial shift toward artificial intelligence, operational optimisation, and measurable performance outcomes — trends that carry significant relevance for the maritime manufacturing and shipbuilding sectors. ### Key Findings According to Rockwell Automation, manufacturers across industries are expanding their use of AI-driven tools to streamline production workflows, reduce downtime, and improve supply chain visibility. The report emphasises a growing focus on quantifiable returns from digital investments, signalling a maturation in how industrial operators approach technology adoption. For the maritime industry, these findings reflect pressures already well understood by shipyards, marine equipment manufacturers, and vessel operators. The drive to digitise production lines, integrate predictive maintenance systems, and leverage real-time data analytics has been gaining momentum across the sector as companies seek to remain competitive and meet increasingly stringent regulatory and efficiency demands. ### Maritime Relevance Shipbuilders and marine equipment suppliers are among the industrial manufacturers grappling with the same digital transformation challenges outlined in the Rockwell Automation study. From automated welding and modular construction techniques to digital twin technology and AI-assisted design, the maritime manufacturing base is under pressure to modernise. The report's emphasis on measurable outcomes is particularly pertinent as shipowners and operators demand greater transparency and performance guarantees from their supply chains. Yards and suppliers that can demonstrate data-driven efficiency gains are increasingly well-positioned to secure contracts in a competitive global market. ### Industry Context The findings align with broader trends observed across the maritime technology landscape, where investment in digitalisation — spanning fleet management software, autonomous systems, and smart port infrastructure — has accelerated markedly in recent years. Classification societies and flag states have also begun incorporating digital readiness criteria into their assessment frameworks. Rockwell Automation's report serves as a timely reminder that the digital transformation imperative is not confined to any single sector. For maritime professionals, the message is clear: manufacturers that fail to embrace AI and smart technologies risk falling behind peers who are already reaping operational and commercial benefits. *Source: PR Newswire / Rockwell Automation 'State of Smart Manufacturing Report 2026', published 19 May 2026.*