Top 5 Industrial Automation Trends for 2022

The end of 2021 brings a fresh look at the evolving landscape of industrial automation. What are the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) trends that will dominate 2022? While early skepticism lingered, manufacturers now recognize the tangible value of connected machines.

In recent years—exacerbated by a shortage of engineers and travel restrictions—IIoT has proven indispensable. Remote access and connectivity have become standard operations.

Our industry experts and partners highlight five key trends poised to shape 2022:

1. Focus on Sustainable Manufacturing
2. Selling Services, Not Just Technology
3. Understanding Cybersecurity Risks
4. Demand for Custom Solutions
5. First Steps in Condition Monitoring

Trend #1: Focus on Sustainable Manufacturing

Climate neutrality, net‑zero emissions, and resource efficiency dominate global agendas. Governments worldwide are prioritizing strategies to achieve climate neutrality, and the industrial sector is a key player.

In Europe, the Green Deal targets a 55 % reduction in net greenhouse‑gas emissions by 2030. The EU’s “Twin Transition” strategy—integrating green and digital transformations—demands that manufacturers adopt Industry 4.0 solutions to build more efficient, low‑energy machines and reduce waste.

In the United States, the Energy‑Efficiency and Environment (E3) framework encourages productivity gains while cutting environmental and energy costs.

Key tip! Start with a simple dashboard that tracks critical parts and alerts you when replacement will cut rejected products, providing an immediate waste‑reduction win.

Trend #2: Selling Services, Not Technology

Digital transformation conversations often revolve around buzzwords—AI, predictive analytics, digital twins. The focus should shift from the technology itself to the solutions it enables.

Rather than selling a remote‑access plug‑in, offer a value‑add service that includes proactive maintenance, performance reporting, and premium support once the warranty ends.

Key tip! Deliver excellent warranty service and produce a performance overview report—then position it as a paid premium offering.

Trend #3: Understanding Cybersecurity Risks

As connectivity deepens and software complexity rises, cyber‑criminals find new attack vectors. Breaches can halt entire factories, steal data, and damage reputation.

Security is a shared responsibility. Machine builders should train staff on risk awareness and partner with trusted connectivity providers that enforce robust firewalls.

Key tip! Secure all external and internal connections, choose a connectivity partner with a proven firewall, and transparently communicate security measures to customers.

Trend #4: Demand for Custom Solutions

IoT is not a one‑size‑fits‑all solution. Each plant has unique requirements, making customization essential for successful implementation.

Key tip! Build a flexible, scalable IoT architecture that supports API integrations and continuous innovation.

Trend #5: First Steps in Condition Monitoring

Condition monitoring has long been on roadmaps, yet many delay execution. In 2022, manufacturers are finally realizing the benefits: timely part replacement and reduced critical failure risk.

Begin small—monitor a single machine part with real‑time data (usage, run hours, cycles). Detect anomalies early, replace before failure, then scale to additional components.

Take the Next Steps in Your Digital Transformation

Need guidance? Download our 20‑page white paper to assess your IIoT maturity and discover concrete next steps backed by real‑life examples.

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