Digitization was the key step toward automation because the information has to be available and digestible to any automation technologies before it can be automated. The progress of automation began from hard/fixed automation to programmable automation. The core of digitalization is data collecting from machines on how they are functioning, monitoring energy use, and tracking resource efficiency. It then helps predict when and what maintenance is needed, allowing manufacturers to better prevent shortages and line stops. 

The solution to it is combining the current automation structure with sensors so sensors can capture and send data then manufacturers can use to implement changes and quickly respond to customer demands.