Industrial production existing in components like concept, modelling, simulation and manufacturing processes forms a central sector of the German economy, which is in a leading position world wide. To secure this position in the long term, various targets have to be met: fast innovation of products and processes, sustainable management, technological leadership and interplant cooperation.

Individual processes, on which modern production systems are based, have to be constantly developed. The same goes for the development and implementation of new processes as in the past e.g., the introduction of laser in material treatment or the change to rapid manufacturing. The use of new materials such as fibrereinforced synthetic material as a replacement for metallic structures requires an adjusted approach. Such innovations affect the influence on the development and construction of new products.

Additionally, it will lead to renewed corporate and organisation structures and to an increase in the proportion and integration of information and communication technologies. 

In recent years, the globalisation of production has strongly increased. In this case, cost reduction and the opening up of new markets have played a key role. A new dimension of cooperation is imperative.