Only 26% of Industrial Leaders Have a Clear IoT Strategy, Says 2017 Survey

The industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is a cornerstone of the fourth industrial revolution, yet a 2017 survey by the Industry of Things World found that only 26 % of decision‑makers have a well‑articulated digital transformation strategy.

The study, which surveyed 1,124 industry leaders, revealed that while most acknowledge the strategic value of IIoT, they largely adopt a “wait‑and‑see” stance toward the technology.

See Also: How IoT is disrupting the world around us

These findings echo recent IIoT surveys conducted over the past year.

Nearly half of respondents—45 %—reported that their organization lacks a digital‑transformation strategy, while 29 % described theirs as merely basic.

Only a Small Fraction Have a Comprehensive Roadmap

Just 16 % of participants said their company has a comprehensive roadmap, compared to 69 % who maintain a modest plan that typically involves pilot programs or consultations with IIoT developers to assess benefits.

Despite the cautious rollout, 88 % of respondents view the Internet of Things as critical to future success. The disconnect between optimism and investment likely stems from an absence of robust strategy among many industry giants.

Experts estimate that IIoT investment could exceed $1 trillion over the next decade, and GE Digital projects $60 trillion in connected industrial assets by 2030. Such a surge underscores the risk of companies focusing solely on deployment without a comprehensive digital plan, potentially leaving them vulnerable to competitors who do.