Crowe 2024 Technology in metals survey report
Opportunities exist, even amid volatility
Navigating the unknowns can be difficult, but technology tied to the right strategy can be used to give leaders a glimpse of what’s around the corner so they can best prepare for what’s to come.
Our 2024 report sheds light on industry trends, delivers unique insights, and provides answers to questions that can help metals leaders make confident decisions and find value in their technology investments.
AI and advanced technology
Metals companies that use AI tools increased by 70% in 2024 compared to 2023.
Data-driven decision-making
70% of metals companies are using data in the decision-making process.
Increased technology investments
58% of metals companies said they’re increasing technology investments in 2024 compared to 2023.
Biggest technology challenge
Survey respondents noted a we've-always-done-it-that-way mentality as one of the biggest challenges in digital transformation and technology.
AI and advanced technology
Metals companies that use AI tools increased by 70% in 2024 compared to 2023.
Data-driven decision-making
70% of metals companies are using data in the decision-making process.
Increased technology investments
58% of metals companies said they’re increasing technology investments in 2024 compared to 2023.
Biggest technology challenge
Survey respondents noted a we've-always-done-it-that-way mentality as one of the biggest challenges in digital transformation and technology.
Survey findings
AI and advanced technology
Digital technology investments
Challenges and opportunities
Digital transformation and enterprise systems
Automation and data
AI and advanced technology
AI and advanced technology
What is your number one hesitation about using AI?
Insight
Sixty-four percent of metals companies are not actively using AI, and over a quarter of respondents stated a lack of understanding about AI as their number one hesitation for using it. What do metals leaders need to know about AI before starting to use it?
Digital technology investments
Digital technology investments
When making decisions about technology investments, what is the most important factor?
Insight
For years, customer needs have been the top deciding factor when making decisions about technology investments. But how can leaders be sure they have an accurate understanding of what customers need?
Challenges and opportunities
Challenges and opportunities
For four years, survey participants have named cybersecurity as the most significant IT-related risk. What steps have you taken to mitigate cybersecurity risks?
(Participants could select multiple responses.)
Insight
While most respondents (64%) said they have provided employees training to mitigate cybersecurity risks, the remaining 36% need to follow suit. How can metals companies make sure their employees are properly trained?
Digital transformation and enterprise systems
Digital transformation and enterprise systems
Where are you on your digital transformation road map?
Insight
Changes such as an acquisition, a shift in the economy, or a pandemic can distract attention from progress in digital transformation. How can a company get back on track once those disruptions have settled?
Automation and data
Automation and data
Please select the top three areas in which automation has had the greatest impact on your business.
(Participants could select multiple responses.)
Insight
Our 2023 survey asked metals leaders to select the top three areas where they thought automation could have the greatest impact, but is automation making an impact in the areas they predicted?
Get the Crowe 2024 Technology in metals survey report
Use this year’s report to gain clarity and confidence in taking the next steps in metals technology.