ISA and Wiley Team Up to Boost Automation Knowledge

A new partnership is set to enhance the accessibility of automation expertise worldwide. The International Society of Automation (ISA) has joined forces with Wiley, a leading publisher known for its authoritative content in scientific and technical domains, to co-publish educational and technical materials focused on automation.

This collaboration comes at a critical time when industries are increasingly reliant on automation technologies to drive efficiency and productivity. The global automation market is expected to grow significantly, projected to reach $500 billion by 2025, according to market reports. With rising investments in smart factories and Industry 4.0 initiatives, ISA’s commitment to improving access to automation knowledge is timely and strategic.

The partnership aims to expand the reach of ISA's content, which includes technical books, training materials, and journals. In an era where skilled workers are in high demand, this move will provide automation professionals—engineers, technicians, and managers—with vital resources to enhance their skills and stay updated with industry trends. A recent survey indicated that nearly 70% of manufacturing leaders consider workforce training crucial for overcoming automation challenges. This partnership positions ISA and Wiley to meet that demand.

Production data shows that companies with well-trained staff see a 25% improvement in operational efficiency when deploying new automation technologies. Conversely, poorly planned implementations often lead to costly downtimes and wasted investments. ISA’s educational resources will help mitigate these risks by preparing professionals to handle new systems effectively.

Integration teams report that one of the most significant barriers to successful automation is the lack of comprehensive training. Many organizations invest heavily in cutting-edge technology but overlook the human element, leading to underutilized systems. For instance, a recent case study from a mid-sized manufacturing plant revealed that a $300,000 robotic arm sat idle for six months due to insufficient operator training, resulting in a payback period that stretched from the anticipated 12 months to an unprecedented 36 months.

The partnership will also focus on providing insights into the hidden costs associated with automation. Vendors often tout seamless integration, but the reality often includes additional expenses for floor modifications, power upgrades, and extensive training hours—costs that can easily add tens of thousands to a project’s budget. With ISA and Wiley’s resources, organizations can better navigate these challenges and make informed decisions.

Floor supervisors confirm that the human element in automation remains irreplaceable. While robots and cobots can handle repetitive tasks, complex decision-making, and troubleshooting still require skilled workers. The collaboration will emphasize a hybrid workforce model, showcasing how automation can augment human capabilities rather than replace them.

As the automation landscape evolves, the importance of continuous learning cannot be overstated. This partnership signals a proactive approach to addressing the skills gap in the automation industry. By fostering a culture of education and knowledge sharing, ISA and Wiley are not just enhancing content distribution but also empowering the next generation of automation professionals.

The agreement is a win-win; Wiley benefits from ISA’s extensive network and expertise, while ISA gains a powerful platform for disseminating knowledge. As automation technologies continue to transform industries, partnerships like these will be vital in ensuring that professionals are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in an increasingly automated world.

Sources

International Society of Automation partners with Wiley to scale publishing content