Rockwell Automation Report Shows 90 Percent of Manufacturers See Digital Transformation as Essential

May 19, 2026
A new global study by Rockwell Automation finds that 90 percent of manufacturers now view digital transformation as essential to remain competitive, with 59 percent actively using smart manufacturing technologies and 34 percent of operations enhanced by AI.

Rockwell Automation announced in a press release the findings of its 2026 State of Smart Manufacturing Report, based on a survey of more than 1,500 manufacturers across 17 countries. The study shows that 90 percent of respondents now consider digital transformation essential to stay competitive.

According to the report, 59 percent of manufacturers are already using smart manufacturing technologies, moving beyond pilot projects to practical implementation. Artificial intelligence is becoming a key factor in operations, with 34 percent of manufacturing activities now augmented by AI.

The study also highlights cybersecurity as a major concern. Forty-six percent of manufacturers reported experiencing at least one cyber incident. The report notes that investment decisions are increasingly guided by measurable outcomes and operational efficiency.

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