What is industrial digitalization?
Industrial digitalization is the process of transforming a factory’s traditional production processes through digital technologies that allow capturing, analyzing, and using real-time data to optimize operations, reduce costs, and improve decision-making. Unlike simple computerization (which only digitizes documents), industrial digitalization connects machines, operators, and systems through IoT, sensors, and specialized software to create a continuous information network.
Digitalization vs. Digital Transformation
Digitalization refers to converting analog processes into digital ones. In other words, it means moving from paper-based control sheets to tablets or computer systems that record the same information. Its main goal is to improve efficiency and accessibility of existing data without changing the way the work is done.
However, Digital Transformation involves a complete cultural and strategic change within the organization. It is not just about digitalizing processes, but about redesigning the business model, using data as a central asset to make decisions, create value, and optimize operations.
Why is industrial digitalization essential?
Industrial companies that digitalize their processes achieve measurable benefits:
Reduction of operational costs: 15–30% according to McKinsey studies.
Improvement in production efficiency: Up to 25% in OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness).
Reduction of human errors: 40–60% in manual processes.
Complete traceability: Ability to track every part or batch from origin to end customer.
Predictive maintenance: Preventing failures before they occur reduces unplanned downtime by 30–50%.
The cost of NOT digitalizing
In 2025, non-digitalized factories faced:
Loss of competitiveness compared to more agile competitors.
Inability to comply with increasingly strict traceability regulations.
Difficulty attracting young talent seeking technological environments.
Disconnect with customers who demand transparency and real-time data.
Fundamental Pillars of Industrial Digitalization
Internet of Things (IoT)
IoT sensors installed on machines and equipment continuously capture data:
Temperature, vibration, energy consumption.
Production speed, number of parts produced.
Status of tools and components.
Real-life example: A production line with IoT sensors detects that a machine is consuming 15% more energy than normal. The system automatically alerts the maintenance team before a failure occurs, preventing a 4-hour production stoppage worth thousands of euros.
MES/MOM Software
The Manufacturing Execution System (MES) or Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM) acts as the brain that coordinates:
Production orders.
Resource allocation.
Quality control.
Material traceability.
Real-time reporting.
Platforms like Kaytek Platform integrate these systems without the need for programming, allowing SMEs to adopt MES technology without complex IT departments.
Big Data and Analytics
Data is only valuable if analyzed correctly:
Real-time dashboards: Instant visualization of critical KPIs.
Historical analysis: Identify patterns and trends.
Predictive analytics: Anticipate problems before they occur.
Connectivity and Integrated Systems
A digitalized factory does not operate in information silos:
Mobile Interface and Cloud
Operators access information through:
Industrial tablets on the shop floor.
Smartphones for notifications.
Remote access for managers and executives.
Cloud computing enables:
Conclusion
Industrial mobility is not just about incorporating new devices on the shop floor; it is about transforming the way people work, make decisions, and create value. In an increasingly digitalized environment, the true differentiating factor remains the operator: their experience, judgment, and adaptability.
Providing operators with the right mobile tools means removing barriers, reducing errors, and turning information into immediate action. Industry 4.0 does not replace human talent—it enhances it. Mobility is one of the key levers for building factories that are more efficient, better connected, and, above all, more human.
At Kaytek, we understand that implementing mobility is not just about providing devices, but about integrating them effectively into production processes. Our platform ensures that mobility is intuitive, accessible, and useful for all operators.
User-friendly interface: Operators can easily access the tools they need, eliminating the learning curve and ensuring faster, more efficient task execution.
Role-based customization: Each operator has access to the information they need according to their tasks and level of responsibility, optimizing their time and performance.
Adaptability: Kaytek Platform adapts to different types of industrial environments, allowing adjustments based on the needs and characteristics of each facility.
Thanks to the mobility integrated into Kaytek Platform, companies can optimize their processes, improve continuous operator training, and make strategic decisions based on real-time data. In this way, Industry 4.0 becomes a tangible, accessible, and successful reality.
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