Five Steps for Digital Collaboration in Industrial Clusters 2025

3FIGURE 1 Digital technologies to unlock value in five strategic areas for digital collaboration 5 Strategic areas for digital collaboration Resources Efficiency & Circularity Commercial Optimization & TradingEnvironment & Risk ManagementOperations & Process OptimizationShared Infrastructure Development Enabling Technologies Decision TechnologiesFoundational TechnologiesSensing & Control Technologies Enterprise Data PlatformsCybersecurityVisualization & Collaboration Platforms Big Data & AnalyticsAugmented & Virtual RealityBlockchainAdvanced Connectivity & 5GEdge, Cloud & Quantum Computing Digital Twin & Simulation TechnologiesAI & Machine LearningInternet of Things (IoT) Digital Labels Advanced Robotics Drones & Imaging Automation Advancing digital collaboration in industrial clusters is a complex process, with early stages being often the most challenging. Securing buy-in from different stakeholders while aligning on a shared vision can be difficult. Digital initiatives typically require data exchange between companies that can be both partners and competitors, raising concerns on cybersecurity, data privacy and trust issues. Commercial and legal risks – including IP protection, antitrust compliance and liability concerns – may create hesitation among participants, while different levels of digital maturity complicate system integration. Successful clusters have navigated these challenges by focusing on key enablers and adopting a structured, phased approach. Drawing on insights from global leaders—including industrial cluster representatives, technology providers, research institutions, start-ups and industry associations—the World Economic Forum, in collaboration with Accenture, developed the Digital Maturity Framework as a structured guide for industrial clusters. The framework outlines 10 enablers and five key steps to enhance digital capabilities at the cluster level.2 Five steps to drive the digital transformation