ISA and Wiley Team Up: A New Era for Automation Publishing

The publishing landscape for automation engineering is about to undergo a significant transformation. The International Society of Automation (ISA) has announced a strategic partnership with Wiley, a renowned publisher in scientific and technical fields, to enhance the global reach of ISA’s educational and technical content.

This collaboration is set to move the needle for professionals in automation and control systems, offering deeper access to crucial resources that can drive innovation and operational improvements in manufacturing environments. Given the rapid advancements in automation technology, the timing couldn't be better.

ISA has long been a cornerstone of knowledge in the automation sector, providing valuable insights, technical standards, and educational resources across its membership base. However, the challenge has always been ensuring that this wealth of information reaches a wider audience. By joining forces with Wiley, ISA aims to leverage Wiley’s extensive distribution network and publishing expertise to broaden the accessibility of its resources.

This partnership is particularly timely as manufacturers face increasing pressure to adopt automation technologies, driven by a need for improved efficiency and competitiveness. According to operational metrics, companies that have integrated advanced automation systems report cycle time reductions of up to 30%. Yet, the road to successful deployment is fraught with challenges, including the need for comprehensive training and integration planning.

Wiley’s role in this partnership will not only involve scaling ISA's existing content but also fostering new publications that reflect the latest trends and technologies in automation. This could include case studies, white papers, and technical manuals that offer actionable insights into the real-world application of automation technologies.

For plant managers and automation engineers, the implications are profound. With an ever-increasing array of automation solutions available—from collaborative robots (cobots) to advanced process control systems—the demand for reliable, up-to-date information is critical. Production data shows that companies that invest in training and education alongside new technology deployments experience significantly lower failure rates and faster payback periods.

A noteworthy aspect of this partnership is its focus on practical applications. Floor supervisors confirm that while high-tech solutions can lead to dramatic improvements—such as achieving zero rework on assembly lines—success hinges on understanding the specific integration requirements. Hidden costs, such as the time needed for operator training or the adjustments needed to existing workflows, often get overlooked in vendor pitches.

This partnership could also pave the way for addressing a significant gap in the industry: the need for accessible educational resources that cater to both seasoned professionals and newcomers. The automation field is evolving rapidly, and the knowledge base needs to keep pace. The integration of new content into Wiley's platforms will likely offer insights into emerging technologies like AI-driven predictive maintenance, which can enhance operational efficiency by up to 25%.

As the automation landscape continues to shift, this collaboration between ISA and Wiley stands to benefit not only professionals in the field but also the broader manufacturing ecosystem. The demand for skilled labor remains high, with many companies struggling to find qualified engineers and technicians. By expanding access to critical resources, ISA and Wiley could help bridge the knowledge gap, ultimately empowering a new generation of automation professionals.

In conclusion, the ISA-Wiley partnership is a significant step forward in democratizing access to vital automation information. As companies navigate the complexities of integrating new technologies, having access to credible, actionable resources will be invaluable. This initiative highlights the importance of continuous learning in an industry that is no longer static but dynamic and ever-evolving.

Sources

International Society of Automation partners with Wiley to scale publishing content