The machinery and plant engineering sector, as well as software development, were separate worlds until a few years ago. Development processes such as the Internet of Things and Industry 4.0 are nearly eliminating these industry separations at a technical level. The increasing digitization is creating new business models that bring about changes in production processes and working conditions. To effectively utilize the new technological possibilities, improve existing products, machines, or systems, or realize completely new ideas with technology, creativity is not the only requirement; connected thinking, comprehensive knowledge, and IT skills are also essential. This approach forms the basis of the authors' discussions in "Machinery and Plant Engineering in the Digital Age." A systematic approach to identification, documentation, testing, and coordination is necessary.