Manufacturing companies need to digitally upgrade production systems and uptake new technologies (like cognitive solutions) in order to stay competitive and to improve their business outcomes in terms of quality, service, sustainability and human wellbeing. Decision-making mechanisms in industrial companies are based on expert knowledge, and in these multi-stage processes, where a lot of data is processed, the degree of accuracy is often insufficient. More specifically, we find companies with a certain degree of digitalization, but that have not evolved into a unique and integrated digital solution. This situation leads to a lack of coordination and efficiency in the decision-making mechanism. The diagnosis of the digital situation offered to companies is not applied according to a general plan, but rather in the form of specific actions for machines or departments. 

To support the preparation of requirements and specifications the methodology consisting of systematic steps was developed. The approach consists of planification, process and digital system audit, consolidation meetings and final diagnostic overview.

This solution includes the analysis of the level of digitalization from two different points of view: the quality of the data in terms of process and product variables (traceability, frequency and precision) and the digitalization of this data (access to data, capture and storage, and visualization). The analysis is followed by a visual benchmarking of the company’s digital situation, the definition of priority criteria and ends in an action plan. To further support the implementation of these steps, a tool (Digital Readiness Diagnostic) was created with several forms to collect the data and provide feedback. The tool provides visual aids to clearly identify the current status and its possible evolution in the future, and prepares concrete activities needed to improve the level of digitalization of the processes considered.