Networked sensors have made modern cars more reliable, more fuel efficient, more environmentally friendly, and safer. Modern plants, which today face many business challenges, should be no different.
http://www.ceasiamag.com/article/second-layer-of-automation/10354
When it comes to new plants, these should not be built the old fashioned way where only process critical control and safety is automated, but rather built to support business critical needs from the very beginning, including wireless sensor networks and an asset management system with its specialised applications. This way, the plant is prepared to quickly and easily add more sensors when needed in the future as industry demands inevitably change.