Hexagon survey of global executives reveals critical insights on digital connectivity and visibility in industrial sectors

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – A comprehensive new report released today by Hexagon’s Asset Lifecycle Intelligence division, the global leader in digital reality solutions, highlights the critical role of data connectivity and visibility in overcoming operational challenges faced by large industrial organizations. The survey of 400 global C-suite executives reinforces digital transformation as the key to enhancing efficiency, resilience, scalability and sustainability in industries such as manufacturing, power, oil & gas and chemicals.

The report found industrial leaders are grappling with common operational hurdles, including missed project deadlines, limited asset scalability and unplanned production downtime. Contributing factors cited by respondents include skills gaps, manual processes and outdated information. These challenges underscore the immediate need for smarter, connected data solutions.

“Companies recognize the imperative to digitally transform, yet many are hitting roadblocks due to fragmented data and legacy systems,” the report stated. Despite increased investments in digital tools, more than half of the executives surveyed admit that digital transformation efforts have yet to deliver expected returns.

Here are some of the report’s key findings:

Operational pain points

• 70% of executives cite missed project milestones as a significant challenge
• 68% struggle with scaling assets to meet demand
• 65% experience unplanned production downtime

Contributing factors

• 76% point to skills and knowledge gaps as major obstacles
• 74% blame manual processes and outdated information for inefficiencies
• 73% highlight poor data integration as a key issue

Investment trends

• 70% have increased their use of digital tools and data sources in the past year
• 56% report that digital transformation efforts have not met expected return on investment

Technology adoption

• 76% frequently or continuously use visualization dashboards; 69% use some form of digital threads to enhance data connectivity
• However, 66% still rely on paper-based information, revealing gaps in digital maturity

Lawrence Benson, Vice President of Portfolio Strategy at Hexagon’s Asset Lifecycle Intelligence division, said, “Closing digital maturity gaps isn’t just about having data – it’s about having the right people and connected systems to make that data reliable and accessible. Best practices, skilled staff, solid integration tools and quality processes are essential to ensure teams can trust and use the information effectively.”

Hexagon’s findings provide clear guidance for advancing digital maturity:

• Address legacy systems first: Transitioning away from outdated technologies is critical.
• Scalability matters: Invest in solutions that grow alongside your business.
• Platform approach: Centralize data management through an integrated digital backbone.
• Leverage AI: Use artificial intelligence to enhance data-driven decision-making.

The findings make clear the path forward for industrial leaders seeking competitive advantages through digital transformation. For more insights and recommendations, read the full report here.

For further information, please contact:
Jerry Felts, Global Communications/Senior Influencer Relations Specialist
Hexagon’s Asset Lifecycle Intelligence division
Tel: +1.256.730.3074
Email: jerry.felts@hexagon.com