American manufacturing is at a noteworthy and exciting convergence of three powerful trends that can provide an opportunity for growth in industry.

• Traditional manufacturing as we’ve known it may be fading, but there remains a legacy of innovation that can serve as a basis basis for future growth.
• Post-recession companies are growing again. The resulting profitability will provide the resources for industry to innovate and stretch its capabilities.
• The methods and approaches of the digital age are increasing the efficiency and profitability of companies that apply digital tools wisely.

Based on discussions with industry representatives throughout the world, modeling and simulation will become an integral component in manufacturers’ best practices. Other countries understand the value of modeling and simulation and are investing in it. The governments of China, India, and Korea, for example, have established formal initiatives to increase the use of modeling and simulation by small and midsized manufacturers, specifically to improve the productivity of their manufacturing sectors. If U.S. manufacturing is to be globally competitive, it must take the lead in applying these world-class best practices.

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