Artificial Intelligence AI Readiness Index as a Guide for Industrial AI Transformation

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Detecon International GmbH

FAULHABER Drive Systems

Wuxi InfiMotion Technology Co., Ltd.

The introduction of Artificial Intelligence in the manufacturing industry is no longer an option – it is a strategic necessity. However, reality often looks different.

According to the study "Innovation & Technology Adoption" by Detecon International, only 20 percent of the surveyed companies in the manufacturing and production sector have widely implemented AI technologies. The remaining 80 percent are still in various stages of evaluation and implementation.

The AI Readiness Index offers a systematic approach to overcoming this implementation gap: It measures the prerequisites for successful AI integration and identifies specific areas for action. But which factors are truly decisive for success – and how can the transformation process be effectively managed?

AI in Manufacturing: The Status Quo

Highly automated and intelligent factories are the declared goal of many industrial companies. AI plays a key role in this: it drives innovation, shortens production cycles, increases efficiency, and even has the potential to reduce emissions in the long term. At the same time, it improves the safety and maintenance measures of machines. The application scenarios of AI in manufacturing are diverse: they range from predictive maintenance to real-time quality control to automated production planning.

However, the path to an AI-driven factory is complex: many companies fail in practical implementation. There is a lack of overarching strategies and clear responsibilities. Instead, isolated pilot projects are created in individual departments. These isolated solutions are hardly scalable later. Companies lack a systematic approach for the sustainable integration of AI into their processes.

AI Readiness – Holistic Evaluation Dimensions as a Foundation

For companies to use AI systems and tools correctly, a systematic analysis of AI maturity is first required. An AI Readiness Index examines this holistically based on three key dimensions:

• The strategic alignment shows how deeply AI is already embedded in the company's strategy. It analyzes defined goals and use cases as well as their significance for key corporate metrics. The availability of budget and resources is also factored into the assessment. A comparison with industry standards highlights any strategic gaps that need to be addressed.
• The technological foundation encompasses the prerequisites for AI applications – from data availability and IT infrastructure to development tools. The analysis identifies technological gaps and prioritizes investments based on economic significance.
• The organizational framework evaluates existing competencies, structures, and corporate culture. A comparison with best practices reveals the state of change management and innovation culture. Low maturity levels indicate a need for action. The costs of organizational adjustments are also considered in the analysis.

Systematically Assess AI Maturity in Production

The assessment of AI maturity is carried out in a structured process. This captures the status quo and derives targeted measures from it:

1. Preparation phase: Experts and companies first work together to identify the relevant processes and stakeholders. It is important to include all affected areas – from production and IT to management.
2. On-site evaluation: During the on-site evaluation, experts assess AI maturity across all dimensions. They conduct interviews, analyze processes, and review documents. Standardized evaluation frameworks ensure an objective assessment.
3. Evaluation: The results are compiled into a comprehensive assessment report. This documents the current maturity level and provides specific action recommendations.

From Analysis to Action

Based on the maturity analysis, companies receive a concrete roadmap for their AI transformation. This includes three time horizons:

• Short-term measures achieve initial successes within six months.
• Medium-term projects develop systematically over 6–18 months.
• Long-term programs ensure sustainable transformation beyond 18 months.

The maturity analysis also includes fundamental make-or-buy decisions: Do companies want to develop AI solutions themselves or source them from external providers? Factors such as existing expertise, strategic importance, and resource availability play an important role here.

It is important to note that AI readiness requires a continuous process. The technology evolves, and new applications emerge. Regular reassessments measure progress and identify new areas for action. Assessment criteria must also evolve – what is considered advanced today may be standard tomorrow.

Change Management as a Critical Success Factor

The implementation of AI requires not only technological changes but also a cultural shift within the company. Professional change management is therefore an essential part of the AI transformation. The AI Readiness Index evaluates this based on specific criteria.

A central point here is the leadership culture. Leaders must actively model the change and promote an innovation-friendly environment. A transparent communication strategy, which continuously informs all stakeholders about AI initiatives, supports this effort.

In parallel, a systematic training program qualifies employees for new tasks and dealing with AI technologies. The index also evaluates how actively the company involves its employees in shaping the AI transformation.

Successful companies invest specifically in these "soft" factors. They create a culture of continuous improvement, where employees experience AI as a support for their work. Regular employee surveys show how acceptance is growing and where the company needs to make adjustments.

AI as a Pioneer for the Factory of the Future

The AI transformation is fundamentally changing the manufacturing industry. Companies must now decide: Will they actively shape this change or be overwhelmed by it? The AI Readiness Index offers a structured approach to mastering this challenge. It enables companies to systematically transform with AI, thereby creating decisive competitive advantages.

*Martin Schiesser is Senior Partner for the Manufacturing Industries sector at Detecon