The future of manufacturing technology 

The manufacturing industry is at the cusp of a technological revolution, driven by advancements in automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and precision inspection systems. As highlighted in Hexagon’s 2025 America’s State of Manufacturing Report, businesses that adopt these emerging technologies stand to gain significant competitive advantages – from improving production efficiency to overcoming labour shortages and ensuring product quality.

To thrive in the fast-evolving landscape, manufacturers must not only understand these innovations but also implement them strategically. This blog explores key technologies shaping the future of manufacturing, provides examples of their successful adoption, and offers actionable insights for leveraging them to stay ahead.

The technologies transforming manufacturing

1. Automation

Automation has long been a driving force in manufacturing, but its capabilities are rapidly expanding. Modern automation systems don’t just perform repetitive tasks; they’re designed to think, adapt, and optimise.

How it works

Automation now extends beyond robotics on assembly lines to include smart production workflows, lights-out manufacturing (operations without human involvement), and advanced process optimisation. These technologies allow companies to increase throughput while reducing waste and operational costs.

Real-world example

An aerospace sub-tier supplier implemented robotic welding and automated inspection solutions to reduce production cycle times by 30%. The move not only improved efficiency but also freed up skilled labour for more complex tasks. 

Actionable insight

Start small with modular automation tools. For example, integrating automated inspection systems into your existing quality control process can enhance precision without disrupting operations.

2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) in manufacturing

AI is changing the game by enabling predictive analytics, real-time decision-making, and machine learning for smarter systems.

How AI powers manufacturing

• Predictive maintenance: AI analyses machine performance data to forecast when equipment needs repairs, minimising downtime.
• Process optimisation: Machine learning algorithms can constantly adapt production parameters to maximise efficiency.
• Error reduction: AI ensures consistent quality by identifying and correcting defects as they occur.

Real-world example

A medical device manufacturer used AI-driven quality control software integrated with automated visual inspection systems. This implementation reduced defect rates by 40%, ensuring stringent regulatory compliance and increasing customer satisfaction.

Actionable insight

Adopt AI tools that provide immediate, measurable benefits, such as predictive maintenance software or machine vision systems. These systems often deliver ROI quickly by reducing downtime and defects.

3. Advanced inspection systems

Inspection has evolved far beyond traditional methods. Today, advanced metrology tools enable manufacturers to ensure the highest product quality with speed and precision.

The role of inspection systems

• Contactless measurement: Technologies like laser scanning and optical inspection provide rapid, non-invasive measurements.
• Real-time integration: Live data feeds enable immediate identification of deviations from specifications, improving first-pass yields.
• Adaptability: Portable inspection systems can be deployed across facilities, providing flexibility for diverse applications.

Real-world example

An automotive tier supplier integrated Hexagon’s portable inspection systems to handle multiple part geometries seamlessly. This adaptability reduced inspection time by 25% while maintaining high-quality standards, a significant win in a highly competitive sector.

Actionable insight

Invest in inspection solutions with user-friendly software and scalable hardware. Look for tools that integrate with your existing systems to ease adoption while delivering immediate efficiency gains.

4. Collaborative robots (Cobots)

Cobots are designed to work alongside human operators, combining the precision of robotics with human problem-solving.

How they’re used

• Assembly assistance: Cobots perform repetitive assembly tasks so humans can focus on higher-value activities.
• Inspection integration: Equipped with sensors, cobots support quality checks by handling multiple parts with consistency.

Real-world example

A general manufacturing firm deployed cobots in assembly lines to handle repetitive motion tasks, reducing employee fatigue and improving job satisfaction. Overall throughput increased by 20% with no associated rise in defects.

Actionable insight

Test cobot deployments in repetitive or ergonomically challenging tasks and reassess operations for broader usage opportunities.

The benefits of early adoption

Early adoption of these technologies provides manufacturers with game-changing benefits, including:

• Higher efficiency: Automation and AI streamline production, reducing time and resource consumption. 
• Better quality: Advanced inspection systems ensure defect-free products, minimising customer complaints and returns. 
• Labour augmentation: Cobots and AI tools help bridge skill gaps, enabling workers to focus on critical process improvements. 
• Future-readiness: Adopting flexible, scalable technologies ensures you can react fast to market changes or new customer demands.

How to stay ahead in the technology race

1. Build a technology roadmap

Assess your current operations and identify technology gaps. Prioritise investments in areas that directly impact your key success indicators, such as reducing defects or improving efficiency. 

2. Engage the workforce

Technological adoption requires buy-in from your team. Provide training on new tools, emphasise how these changes will enhance their roles, and create a culture of continuous learning.

3. Collaborate with technology partners

Work with solution providers like Hexagon to ensure your systems are compatible, scalable, and adaptable to your evolving needs. 

4. Measure and iterate

Track KPIs to evaluate the impact of each technology. Are you meeting your goals, like reducing inspection times or increasing throughput? Use this data to refine your technology strategy.

The future is now

Manufacturing technology is no longer a distant concept – it’s here, reshaping the industry in real-time. Automation, AI, and advanced inspection systems are already proving their value across sectors like aerospace, automotive, and general manufacturing. By taking decisive action now, you can position your operation at the forefront of the industry.

Dive deeper with Hexagon’s report

For a comprehensive view of how emerging technologies are reshaping manufacturing, download Hexagon’s 2025 America’s State of Manufacturing Report. 

Download the report here and gain actionable insights to prepare your business for a future driven by innovation.