Software-defined industry (SDI) and agent-based artificial intelligence (Agentic AI) are giving rise to a new production paradigm. Processes are controlled by software and AI, making plants more flexible, efficient, resilient, and autonomous. “The next decade of productivity gains will come from IT or AI solutions,” says Gunther Koschnick, division manager at the German Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers' Association (ZVEI). That is why thinking in terms of software is the logical next step toward increasing autonomy in systems. Only in this way can production in Germany and Europe remain competitive, resilient, and sustainable in the future: “We must actively shape this transformation by investing in SDI projects, developing interoperable standards, and providing further training for skilled workers.”

Traditional systems, on the other hand, are now reaching their limits: long setup times, rigid structures, and a shortage of skilled workers. This is where Agentic AI comes in. Autonomous software agents orchestrate production steps, prepare decisions, and react dynamically to disruptions or new product requirements. “In today's rapidly evolving world, we need production systems that can autonomously adapt to situations, reconfigure themselves, and optimize,” Koschnick continues.

The advantage of SDI: it connects the shop floor with IT. Production modules are flexibly combined via digitally described capabilities, while digital twins enable simulation and rapid changes beyond production. SDI and Agentic AI thus open up efficiency gains, new data-based business models, and strengthen the resilience of global value chains. However, this requires interoperable standards, secure data rooms, and an innovation-friendly regulatory environment. “Globally applicable, secure data standards are a key element,” emphasizes Koschnick.

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