Manufacturers have been eyeing Industry 4.0 for years. Aside from a few notable exceptions, most strategic plans have been years in the making – and the executing. The global pandemic, however, compressed timetables and accelerated timeframes. Not only were manufacturers forced to operate in ways they’d never done before – remotely, virtually and digitally – but they also faced challenges that only grew more acute during the pandemic, from new consumer behaviors and expectations to supply chain constraints.

These challenges aren’t going away anytime soon. But one thing is certain: More technologically advanced manufacturers are better equipped to quickly reset production requirements, manage supply chain fluctuations and engage employees wherever they work — all while substantially improving customer engagements.