The role of Automation and Control in the Information Society

Automation technology refers to a sector of the European economy, covering a large number of industrial products, services and consumer goods. Smart automation products can be found in household appliances and automobiles, while components and systems for industrial automation or environmental control represent one of the most important export sectors of European Industry. This report investigates the current and future role of automation within the emerging Information Society. The present status of automation technology is analysed, future trends and challenges are viewed and the consequences for the everyday life of European citizens, in European industry and in the European economy in general are reported.