Digital novice Industrial companies often start off as digital novices on their path to the fourth industrial revolution. At this maturity level, initial positive digitization results have been achieved in all departments as well as in the individual product and service portfolios. However, the activities are neither coordinated nor geared towards a stringent schedule for the future. Digital risks are not recorded systematically and compliance is not guaranteed in all areas.
Vertical integrator Industrial companies at the second maturity level have already given their product and service portfolio digital functions as vertical integrators. For example, companies may use integrated software (“embedded systems”) and an online connection allowing an internet-based communication of the product with the production materials. The operative processes as well as important administrative processes are digitized. Data from product development, for example, is now available for physical manufacturing environments, logistics and all systems of the company. The functions of an online presence are used for the market entry, for example, by means of detailed websites and online product catalogues