AI Boom or Bust - Connected World

Manufacturers have spent the last few years asking whether they should adopt AI (artificial intelligence). That question is largely settled. AI is no longer optional. But now there is a bigger question manufacturers must contend with: Can companies actually make AI work? The danger right now is that many manufacturers are confusing adoption with transformation. Let’s take a closer look at some numbers that tell an interesting story.

A 2026 survey of 500 manufacturing technology decision makers in the summer found 60% now describe their organizations as broadly or fully advanced in AI adoption, which is up from 36% earlier in the year. That’s certainly growth. We know companies are scurrying to adopt AI pilots in various areas of work, but speed of adoption does not automatically translate into business value—as many companies are learning the hard way.

As I see it, this is where the conversation needs to change....

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