Factories of the future: A condition for the technological development of industry

Subject. This article discusses the issues related to the spread of information technologies and the development of the concept of Industry 4.0. Objectives. The article aims to assess the prospects for the digital transformation of industrial enterprises, and determine the stages of formation of the factory of the future. Methods. For the study, we used the general scientific research methods. Results. The article describes the process of creating factories of the future, which includes several stages, and the main advantages of a virtual factory. Conclusions and Relevance. In the process of shaping the factories of the future, it is important to take advantage of outsourcing and cooperation opportunities. The results of the study can be used in the process of adjusting and implementing digital transformation programmes for the Russian industry.