Explore the transformative opportunities and challenges of Industrial AI in manufacturing. Despite hurdles like data quality and regulatory compliance, AI holds significant potential to revolutionize the industry.
Could it be that the reluctance to adopt Industrial AI in manufacturing is about relinquishing power? Change is always difficult, and ‘letting go’ to a machine has always been met with skepticism.
Let me ask a question – would you use a driverless car? I would guess that most would say no to that.
However, would you get into a lift without a person operating the controls? Here, I would guess that most of you would have no problem getting into a lift and pushing the button for your desired floor. However, there was a time when lifts were a new thing and were operated by a person.
What I am saying is that with every new step in the advance of technology, there is an initial reluctance to use it. Putting Industrial AI in control or letting Industrial AI control your manufacturing processes is the same. The difference here is that the pace of change is accelerating, and manufacturers do not have the time to wait and see as they will be left behind.
One of the primary reasons for the slow adoption of Industrial AI is the fear of the unknown. Manufacturers are often wary of integrating AI into their processes due to concerns about reliability, security, and the potential for job displacement. This fear is compounded by a lack of understanding of how Industrial AI works and the benefits it can bring.
Trust is a significant factor in the adoption of any modern technology. For any type of AI to be trusted, it must be based on high quality data. Poor data quality can lead to incorrect predictions and decisions, which can erode trust in the system. Therefore, it is crucial for manufacturers to ensure that the data feeding into their AI systems is accurate and reliable.
The rapid pace of technological change can be overwhelming for manufacturers. Many feel that they do not have the time or resources to keep up with the latest advancements. This can lead to a wait-and-see approach, where manufacturers delay adopting innovative technologies until they are proven and widely accepted. Additionally, many manufacturers are hesitant to invest in Industrial AI due to the high initial costs associated with implementation. This includes not only the cost of the technology itself but also the expenses related to training staff and integrating Industrial AI systems with existing processes.
There is often a significant skills gap in the workforce when it comes to AI. Many employees may not have the necessary skills to work with AI technologies, which can be a barrier to adoption. Addressing this gap through training and education is crucial for successful implementation. Manufacturers must also navigate a complex landscape of regulations and compliance requirements. The introduction of AI can add another layer of complexity, as companies must ensure that their AI systems comply with industry standards and regulations.
Beyond the fear of the unknown, there can be a cultural resistance within organizations to adopting innovative technologies. This resistance can stem from a variety of factors, including a preference for traditional methods, fear of job loss, and a lack of understanding of AI’s potential benefits. Look to technology partners for examples of successful AI implementations in the manufacturing industry which can help build confidence and provide a roadmap. These partners can also highlight case studies where AI has led to significant improvements in efficiency, cost savings, and product quality.
Most manufacturers agree that they will be out of business in 1-3 years if they do not do anything (82% according to a recent IFS survey). Therefore, the recommendation is to take a strategic approach to AI adoption. Start small, see the effects, and grow from there. This approach allows manufacturers to build trust in AI gradually and ensures that the AI’s suggestions are based on high quality data. Once the benefits of AI have been recognized, the next steps can be taken with more confidence. By starting with small, manageable projects, manufacturers can see the tangible benefits of AI and build the necessary trust and understanding. Before you know it, you will be well on your way to an Industrial AI-supported manufacturing business.
It is important to have a long-term vision and strategy for AI adoption. This includes setting clear goals, measuring progress, and being prepared to adapt as the technology and market conditions evolve. Encouraging collaboration and partnerships with AI technology providers, research institutions, and other manufacturers can help overcome some of the barriers to adoption. These collaborations can provide access to expertise, resources, and innovative solutions.
In conclusion, the hesitation to adopt Industrial AI is multifaceted, involving fear of the unknown, concerns about data quality, cost and investment concerns, skills gaps, regulatory and compliance issues, and cultural resistance. However, by taking a strategic, incremental approach, manufacturers can overcome these barriers and harness the power of Industrial AI to drive their businesses forward.
SOURCE: Andrew Burton.(2025 January 28).Driving Forward: Boosting Industrial AI Adoption. IFS Blog. https://blog.ifs.com/2025/01/driving-forward-boosting-industrial-ai-adoption
