State-of-the-Art, Challenges, and Emerging Trends in the Digitalization of Industrial Enterprises

This review article systematically examines state-of-the-art applications and emerging trends in integrating modern digital technologies within industrial companies, while also addressing the key challenges hindering their effective adoption and implementation. We analyse how and automated production lines and robots, the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, big data and artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming valueadded processes in smart factories—driving innovation, operational efficiency, and competitive advantage. We also explore future developments such as humanrobot collaboration, explainable AI and sustainability driven smart manufacturing. As a summary, we propose and validate a conceptual framework for digitalization of industrial companies. In the final section, our review also offers recommendations for stakeholders seeking to harness these cutting edge technologies for growth and long term competitiveness.