This playbook explores how manufacturers are deploying AI agents to achieve true autonomy and real-time decision-making on the factory floor. The industrial internet of things promised a manufacturing revolution, but success has been limited — until now. Manufacturers are deploying orchestrated AI agents at the edge under strict data governance frameworks, moving beyond simple automation to genuine autonomy. With 61% of manufacturers expecting AI investment to increase by 2027 and 80% calling it essential by 2030, the shift is undeniable. This comprehensive playbook examines today’s manufacturing landscape, identifies gaps in intelligent automation and provides industry-specific use cases for agentic AI. You’ll discover: How to execute decisions directly on the factory floor without relying on cloud connectivity. Practical guidance for selecting rugged, AI-ready edge devices. Real-world examples from manufacturers achieving measurable results with AI at the edge.
