Foreword What if manufacturers around the world could access a proven, scalable system to accelerate their transformation – one built on the successes of the most advanced industrial sites? This is the vision behind the Lighthouse Operating System, a next-generation industrial operating system that distils the hard-earned lessons of the world’s leading manufacturing sites into an actionable framework for the entire sector. This journey began as a collaboration among the World Economic Forum, NEOM and a group of pioneering industry partners, focused on developing the Next Generation Industrial Operating System (NGIOS) – a framework for integrating digitalization, sustainability and workforce transformation into core manufacturing operations. As the work progressed, it became clear that manufacturers needed more than just a blueprint: they needed a practical, tested system to bridge the digital maturity gap across industries and regions. With the backing of 189 Lighthouse factories recognized by the Forum’s Global Lighthouse Network (GLN), the initiative evolved into the Lighthouse OS – a structured, scalable way to embed best-in-class operational practices across industrial organizations. The need for this transformation is clear. While some companies have mastered the use of artificial intelligence (AI), automation, digital twins and sustainability-focused innovations, many others – especially small and medium-sized manufacturers – struggle to scale these solutions effectively. The Lighthouse OS addresses this challenge by capturing what works, why it works and how to implement it at scale, equipping manufacturers with the tools and knowledge to drive tangible business outcomes, resilience and long-term competitiveness. At its core, the Lighthouse OS is designed to be intuitive, adaptable and reflective of real-world industrial operations. It is not a theoretical model but a system built for and by manufacturers, validated through the insights of industry leaders who have already navigated complex digital transformations. Whether on the shop floor or in the boardroom, the Lighthouse OS provides a common language and structure for continuous improvement, ensuring that transformation efforts deliver lasting impact. To bring this vision to life, we have assembled a coalition of Forum industry partners and Lighthouse sites, whose expertise will ensure the Lighthouse OS remains grounded and focused on delivering measurable results. This white paper marks the first step in an iterative process – develop, test, refine and scale – with the goal of making the Lighthouse OS openly accessible to manufacturers worldwide. By working together, we can unlock a new era of industrial excellence, ensuring that no company is left behind in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.Kiva Allgood Head, Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains; Member, Executive Committee, World Economic ForumVishal Wanchoo Chief Executive Officer, OXAGON, NEOM The Lighthouse Operating System: Driving Responsible Transformation April 2025 The Lighthouse Operating System: Driving Responsible Transformation 3

The Lighthouse Operating System 2025