The Path To Autonomous Operations

Automation refers to the use of technologies such as sensors, software, control systems, robotics and artificial intelligence- (AI) or machine learning (ML)-enabled solutions to perform complex tasks with minimal human intervention. Honeywell automation and control solutions support its key segments including aerospace, industrials and buildings to automate processes and procedures and help reduce human error, provide better situational awareness, allow a faster response to incidents and manage equipment performance. 

Many industries are facing a growing shortage of skilled labor as experienced workers retire and fewer people enter specialized roles. Automation solutions can help bridge this gap by capturing institutional knowledge and standardizing processes. Honeywell workforce excellence solutions help support this effort by combining digital tools and connected worker solutions to improve training, safety and performance. These systems help new employees ramp up faster and operate with greater accuracy and efficiency with the aim of helping to close skill gaps and supporting long-term workforce resilience.

Automation technology is transforming industrial operations by enabling a more efficient workforce, supporting faster decision making, streamlining internal processes, enhancing operational safety and elevating output quality.  It can help organizations shift from routine execution to more strategic initiatives and innovation. These solutions often also establish a foundation to enable the integration of new technologies into existing operations with confidence. For example, solutions like Honeywell Enterprise Buildings Integrator (EBI) can enable centralized tracking, control and automation of building operations across often siloed building systems including building management systems (BMS), security, fire and life safety systems and more. Trusted by airports, healthcare facilities, data centers and other critical infrastructure organizations, Honeywell EBI can enable the seamless integration and management of complex facilities through a single solution. 

Industrial companies today face a range of persistent challenges, from labor shortages and aging infrastructure to rising maintenance costs. These pressures intensify the potential for downtime, inconsistent product quality and workforce inefficiencies. A key contributor to process safety and reliability issues is human error, often stemming from fragmented systems and delayed decision making. Automation technologies, like the Honeywell Experion Process Knowledge System (PKS) can help mitigate these risks by reducing manual intervention and enhancing operational consistency. Solutions like Honeywell Experion can be combined with the Honeywell Forge IoT platform to deliver advanced data to enable outcome-focused insights.

Industrial companies are ramping up automation investments in response to trends such as labor shortages, cybersecurity risks, energy security and regulatory shifts requiring them to modernize operations. Digital transformation can help address the urgency to stay competitive. Emerging technologies like AI and cloud and edge computing can make automation more scalable and cost effective at both a site and enterprise level. Together, these technologies are reshaping how industrial organizations operate.