Schneider Electric joins World Economic Forum Lighthouse Operating System board

Schneider Electric has joined the advisory board for the Lighthouse Operating System, a new open-source framework launched by the World Economic Forum to help manufacturers scale digital transformation and operational improvement programs.

The initiative brings together manufacturers, consultants, and technology providers to create a practical blueprint for industrial companies seeking to modernize operations without relying on isolated pilot projects or large specialist teams.

Developed by the World Economic Forum’s Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains, the Lighthouse Operating System draws on eight years of insights from the Global Lighthouse Network. The framework is designed to help manufacturers move from localized digital initiatives to system-wide operational transformation.

The Lighthouse Operating System is built around six operating principles, including connected workflows, embedded sustainability, workforce learning, and accelerated digital and data capabilities. The framework also includes five operational maturity levels that allow manufacturers to assess current performance, prioritize investments, and scale improvements over time.

According to the World Economic Forum, the framework combines digital innovation, sustainability, workforce development, and operational excellence into a single operating model intended to deliver repeatable performance gains.

Schneider Electric said its contribution to the initiative is based on more than two decades of operational transformation experience across its global manufacturing network. The company stated that its operating model supports nine World Economic Forum Lighthouse factory recognitions and advanced digital supply chain initiatives.

Federico Torti, Head of Technology and Innovation at the World Economic Forum, said the framework is intended to help manufacturers apply proven operational practices more consistently and at scale across the industry.

Cecile Vercellino, Senior Vice President of Services for Industrial Automation at Schneider Electric, said the company has implemented similar transformation principles across more than 120 smart factories and distribution centers, helping organizations move beyond isolated digital pilots toward broader operational change.

The Lighthouse Operating System is expected to continue evolving through pilot projects and industry collaboration. The World Economic Forum said manufacturers, technology providers, and public-sector organizations are being invited to contribute to future development of the framework.