Here is its assessement of the embedded systems problem. Embedded systems are electronic microprocessors or chips that are built into pieces of equipment. They exist in all computers, but more importantly in equipment throughout offices, factories, process plants, machinery, and vehicles. Often they operate, control, protect or monitor vital business processes. . . . Embedded systems underpin the world's business processes.
Manufacturing processes are particularly dependent.
Food, drink and clean water come primarily from processes that depend on embedded systems. Vehicles of all types use microprocessors. They are also vital in railway networks, telecommunications, medical equipment, broadcast media and so on. Offices and workshops are dependent on embedded systems for everyday operations. Telephone systems, PABXs, fax machines, mailing equipment and other common office equipment that record date and time.