Parsec’s 2024 State of Manufacturing Survey:
North America
An exploration of modern manufacturing and organizational progress toward Industry 4.0.
Parsec’s 2024 State of Manufacturing Survey: North America
An exploration of modern manufacturing and organizational progress toward Industry 4.0.
Survey Results Snapshot

Ongoing Struggles
Supply chain disruptions rated as “very” or “extremely” challenging by 71%

Shifting Strategies
41% diversifying suppliers, 37% boosting inventory, 36% adding new tech

AI Talent Gap
30% cite lack of talent as a barrier; 83% expect AI adoption within 4 years

Reshoring Hurdles
45% lack facilities; 44% struggle with workforce for reshoring efforts
In a survey of 600 leaders from North American manufacturing companies, Parsec’s State of Manufacturing 2024: North America report pulls back the curtain on the key challenges today’s manufacturers face. The report digs into the ways manufacturers are adapting strategies amid a complex geopolitical backdrop, an ongoing labor shortage, and pressure to embrace digital tools. Parsec’s 2024 survey explores how leaders are weighing the risks and rewards of technology investments, ensuring resiliency, and minimizing disruptions throughout their supply chain operations.
Survey Highlights
- Contending with supply chain disruptions remains “very” or “extremely” challenging for nearly three-quarters (71%) of North American manufacturers, with economic downturns (38%) and lack of visibility (36%) cited as top challenges.
- Manufacturers are moving away from “just-in-time” fulfillment to promote resilience, opting to diversify suppliers (41%), increase inventory (37%), and implement new technologies (36%).
- While enthusiasm about AI remains high, 30% of respondents said a lack of talent is a key barrier to adoption. This could stall progress for the 83% of respondents anticipating widespread AI use within their companies within the next four years.
- Despite interest in reshoring, manufacturers remain concerned about a lack of suitable facilities (45%) and difficulties securing a skilled workforce (44%) in locations closer to home.
Download the survey to learn more.
Download our survey to learn more.
Want to learn more about how TrakSYS is optimizing manufacturing operations worldwide? Explore our customer-centric case studies now.

Why Traceability is More Important Than Ever Before
Traceability can help U.S. manufacturers scale confidently and efficiently amid rising investment.

What is IT/OT Convergence in Manufacturing?
Merge information and operational technology via IT/OT convergence initiatives.

Good Business Under Pressure: Why Quality Must Always Matter
Even under pressure, maintaining product and service quality builds long-term trust, brand loyalty, and sustainable business success.

16 Expert Strategies for Solving Today’s Workforce Gaps
Experts share strategies like upskilling, flexible work, and AI integration to help companies address ongoing workforce and skills gaps.

Stop Greenwashing and Start Profiting from Real Sustainability
Brands that embrace genuine sustainability—not greenwashing—gain trust, reduce costs, and uncover new revenue opportunities.

Competitive Edge: 17 Affordable Ways SMBs Can Leverage AI
From chatbots to predictive analytics, SMBs can tap low-cost AI tools to boost efficiency, customer engagement, and growth.