The Future of Industrial Production

The Future of Manufacturing Is More Than Just Automation

The three presentations by Dr. Andreas Hackner (Bayern Innovativ), Bernhard Schmidt (Nepata Vertrieb GmbH), and Dr. Michael Göller (Nisar GmbH) painted a common picture: The future of manufacturing will not emerge solely from new machines, but rather from the interplay of digitalization, data, AI, resilience, sustainability, and new forms of collaboration. Topics mentioned included AI in manufacturing, robotics and cobots, process automation, mechatronic drive systems, additive manufacturing, and product safety issues
For medium-sized industrial companies in particular, transformation is thus becoming a strategic priority: Companies must react more quickly to changes while simultaneously finding practical solutions that can be integrated into existing processes.

The shortage of skilled workers remains a key challenge

A recurring theme in all the presentations was the shortage of skilled workers. It was described as an acute structural challenge that is further exacerbated by demographic change. The consequences range from delays and declining on-time delivery rates to postponed innovation projects.
At the same time, it became clear that securing a skilled workforce requires a multi-pronged approach. In addition to training, professional development, and attractive work environments, technological relief, automation, and intelligent assistance systems are becoming increasingly important.

AI demonstrates its value primarily in specific use cases

A key takeaway from the webinar was the practical perspective on artificial intelligence. AI was not described as an abstract vision of the future, but rather as a tool for clearly defined use cases—particularly where unstructured information must be processed, such as in documents, images, free-form text, or inquiries. Examples were presented from knowledge management, audit support, quote and inquiry processing, production planning, materials planning, and quality assurance. In one example, the time required to process incoming orders was reduced from over an hour to about five minutes.
However, it was equally clear that AI does not automatically improve poor processes. Successful digitalization requires that workflows be designed in a way that is understandable, structured, and logical.

Robotics Supports Humans

Robotics was also identified as a key component of future production—especially in areas involving repetitive, physically demanding, or ergonomically unfavorable tasks. Cobots are considered a more accessible entry point, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises, because they can be deployed flexibly and specifically alleviate the workload on employees.
The focus here is not on replacing humans, but on the “human-in-the-loop” principle: humans remain essential when it comes to evaluating, validating, and approving results.

Networking and phased implementation are crucial

Another recurring theme of the webinar was the importance of networking. Transformation is most successful when companies, researchers, and practitioners engage in dialogue, share experiences, and work together on viable solutions.
The presentations also made it clear that the path to the production of the future rarely involves a giant leap. Instead, the recommendations emphasized clear use cases, pilot projects, economic feasibility studies, iterative implementation, and the early involvement of employees.

Conclusion

The webinar demonstrated that the production of the future is not a distant vision, but a concrete task to be shaped. Those who combine technological possibilities with clear processes, qualified employees, and practical use cases lay the foundation for greater competitiveness, resilience, and innovative strength.