REPORT: Agile Leaders Confront the AI Skills Gap Learn more
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SMART MANUFACTURING 2026

93% of manufacturers will adopt new tech in 2026  

But only empowered teams and agile leadership will turn adoption into lasting transformation

Download the Smart Manufacturing 2026 report to learn how manufacturing leaders are confronting the AI skills gap, integration complexities, and other operational challenges.
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Complete the form to access the Smart Manufacturing 2026 Report and see what’s shaping tomorrow’s manufacturing strategies.

AI continues to reshape manufacturing, creating new opportunities for efficiency, growth, and competitive advantage. Yet, as organizations adopt AI-enabled automation, tools for more efficient and accurate quoting, product configuration platforms, and other solutions, many still face challenges with legacy system integration, data quality, and workforce readiness.

Key features of PLM are expanding, with top applications including:

38%

product
design

38%

project
management

35%

document
management
The Smart Manufacturing 2026 Report reveals how today’s most agile organizations are navigating these challenges while building a stronger digital foundation for the future. This datarich research provides an insider look at the technologies manufacturers are prioritizing, where talent gaps persist, and how businesses are restructuring their product lifecycle data strategies to stay competitive. 

To understand these trends, we surveyed 500 software decision makers across North America and DACH. Here’s what we discovered:

  • 93% of manufacturers plan to adopt new technologies in the next 12 months, including AI powered quality control, PLM, and IIoT platforms.
  • Key features of PLM are expanding, with top applications including product design (38%), project management (38%), and document management (35%). 
  • Cloud based PLM adoption is accelerating, with 44% already using cloud PLM to improve accessibility, visibility, and performance. 
Whether you’re responsible for operations, product development, engineering, or digital transformation, this report highlights where the industry is trending and how to stay ahead. 
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Today, organizations are accelerating investments in AI to unlock efficiency, resilience, and a competitive advantage. Yet the question remains: are these investments translating into measurable impact, or are they stalling under the weight of integration challenges and talent gaps?