The digitalisation of the manufacturing industry is now an essential condition for the competitiveness of the Portuguese economy. In a context marked by international pressure, increasingly demanding value chains and growing sustainability objectives, industrial companies face the challenge of modernising processes, technologies and skills in order to remain relevant.
The integration of digital technologies enables tangible gains in terms of productive efficiency, quality and operational flexibility. Automation, real-time monitoring and data analysis support more informed decision-making, reduce waste and increase process predictability. For a large part of the national industrial fabric, where resources are limited and margins for error are small, these gains are decisive for competing in increasingly demanding markets.
Despite the clear benefits, the adoption of digital solutions continues to progress unevenly. Many companies recognise the importance of digital transformation but face difficulties in assessing available technologies, defining investment priorities and mobilising the necessary skills. The risk associated with poorly informed decisions remains a significant barrier.
It is within this context that PRODUTECH DIH plays a relevant role. By providing access to specialised technical knowledge, testing and demonstration infrastructures, and support for experimentation in industrial environments, the hub reduces the uncertainty associated with the adoption of digital technologies. This approach makes it possible to test solutions in real contexts, assess their impact and support more informed decisions, bringing innovation closer to the reality of factories.
The effects of digitalisation go beyond improvements in individual company performance. A more digitalised industry is better prepared to use resources more efficiently, reduce energy consumption and monitor its environmental performance. These capabilities are increasingly important, both to meet regulatory requirements and to respond to market and customer expectations. By promoting the adoption of digital solutions across value chains, PRODUTECH DIH helps to strengthen the resilience and competitiveness of the industrial system as a whole.
Digital transformation is also a collaborative process. Strong links between companies, research centres, technology providers and public entities are essential to accelerate knowledge transfer and the practical application of research. PRODUTECH DIH acts as a meeting point for these stakeholders, facilitating coordination and ensuring that public support is aligned with the concrete needs of the industrial sector.
Finally, no technological transformation is sustainable without investment in skills. The upskilling of human resources is a critical factor in ensuring that technologies are properly integrated and effectively used. PRODUTECH DIH contributes to this goal by promoting training initiatives linked to digital technologies and their industrial applications, supporting workforce adaptation to change.
Opinion article by Francisca Cunha, Project Management Officer of the CCG/ZGDV Institute
