The 2027 Autodesk State of Design & Make report explores the trends, technologies, and business priorities shaping how organizations design, manufacture, and operate. Based on research with 5,500 industry leaders and experts across 23 countries, the annual global study examines digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), sustainability, and cross-industry collaboration. For manufacturers, this year's findings highlight three opportunities to improve performance, make better decisions, and build a more resilient business.
1. Digital Transformation Delivers Results, but the Work Isn't Done
Digital transformation is producing measurable business benefits, with 98% of leaders reporting positive outcomes. Yet, manufacturers still face barriers including limited time, skills gaps, and cost. The report emphasizes that success requires more than investing in new technology. Organizations must also connect data, integrate workflows, and develop the skills needed to put those tools to work.
What this means for manufacturers: Focus on building a connected digital foundation that helps teams share accurate information, improve productivity, and make better decisions across engineering and production.
2. AI Adoption Is Moving from Experimentation to Execution
AI is now a top business priority, with 75% of leaders planning to increase AI investment over the next three years. However, only 40% of organizations across Design and Make industries say they are approaching or have achieved their AI goals. The report points to trusted data, connected systems, and employee training as essential to turning AI investment into practical results.
What this means for manufacturers: The report reccomends starting by identifying one process where AI could make a meaningful difference, such as finding engineering information faster, automating repetitive tasks, or improving access to production data. However, your data needs to be accurate, accessible, and connected in order to ready for AI. As the old adage goes, "garbage in, garbage out". Leveraging guidance from an experienced technology solutions parter, like IMAGINiT, is the recomended approach to help you prepare for AI and get the most out of your software.
3. Connected Capabilities Create a Competitive Advantage
The report identifies a group called Pacesetters, representing 11% of respondents, that leads in digital maturity, AI adoption, and sustainability. These organizations consistently outperform their peers. They are more likely to connect systems, prioritize data accuracy, and integrate technology into everyday business processes. The report also highlights sustainability as a source of business value, with 67% of leaders saying it creates a competitive advantage.
What this means for manufacturers: Treat digital transformation, AI, and sustainability as connected business priorities rather than separate initiatives. Better visibility into production, energy use, and operational performance can help teams identify inefficiencies and make more informed decisions.
Turn Insights into Action
The 2027 State of Design & Make report reinforces a clear message: technology alone isn't enough. Manufacturers that connect trusted data, capable people, and integrated workflows are better positioned to turn new technology into measurable business outcomes.
Understanding where your organization stands is the first step toward meaningful progress. IMAGINiT helps manufacturers connect data, improve workflows, and identify practical opportunities for digital transformation and AI.
Take The Next Step. Connect with IMAGINiT to explore how your organization can build a stronger digital foundation and turn these insights into measurable results.
