This document is the executive summary for a two volume report on technological innovation and southern rural industrial development. The first volume examines public and private factors that influence investment decisions in new technologies and the outcomes of those decisions; effects of automation on employment and the workplace; outcomes of investment decisions; associated changes in organization and management philosophy; the role of education; and broader impacts on communities. Volume two is a collection of eight case studies. Most investments in automation are made incrementally to perform specific functions and address particular business objectives. Domestic competition and availability of new technologies are the two most common reasons for automating. Automation investments for these companies have increased capacity, output, productivity, and profitability. New technologies require more skills and flexibility, but provide for greater worker participation and autonomy. Automation is associated with higher-order thinking, more education, and more autonomy and responsibility for workers. Investments in new technologies typically lead to increases in total employment. Firms automating expect vocational education to provide sound basic skills and an ability to learn, rather than equipment-specific skills. Strategies for public sector intervention are suggested in the areas of outreach and information, education and training, and new industrial relationships. (DHP)