Quantum Technologies Key Opportunities for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains 2025

Appendices Indicator explanations TABLE 1 IndicatorExplanation of indicator levelsQuantum computingQuantum sensingQuantum communications and security Maturity level How developed and ready the technology is for practical use High is desirableLow – Experimental stage, mainly theoretical, no real-world use cases Medium – Some proven applications, but large-scale deployment is limited High – Well-developed, widely adopted and integrated into various industriesMedium Medium Between medium and high Scalability The ability of the technology to expand and handle increasing workloads High is desirableLow – Limited scalability due to hardware, cost or environmental requirements Medium – Some expansion possible, but significant improvements needed High – Easily scalable, deployable across industries with minimal barriersMedium Medium Between medium and high Level of expertise required The effort and expertise required to adopt and use the technology Low is desirableLow – Easy to learn and integrate, with user-friendly tools and widespread training available Medium – Specialized knowledge required (but practical applications are more intuitive) High – Very complex, requiring deep expertise in quantum physics and engineeringBetween medium and highMedium Between low and medium Implementation time and cost The resources required to deploy the technology Low is desirableLow – Cost-effective and quick to implement at scale Medium – Moderate cost and time commitment, with potential long-term ROI High – Expensive, long-term investment with slow deploymentBetween medium and highMedium Between low and medium Risk level Potential challenges or negative outcomes from adoption or non-adoption Low is desirableLow – Minimal risk, well-established technology with clear benefits Medium – Some uncertainties, but risks can be managed with strategic planning High – Significant risks, including high costs, security vulnerabilities or potential disruptions.Medium (for both adoption and inaction)Between medium and high (for both adoption and inaction)High (for inaction)A1 Explanation of indicators These indicators also influence one another, with risk being particularly affected by the combined impact of all other factors. Quantum Technologies: Key Opportunities for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains 25