Automation is a process in which machines or devices automatically operate or control according to prescribed procedures or instructions without human intervention. Informatization refers to the historical process of cultivating and developing new productive forces represented by computer-based intelligent tools and making them benefit society. Automation should be classified as informatization as part of informatization productivity. Information productivity is the most advanced productivity of mankind so far. It requires advanced production relations and superstructure to adapt to it. All production relations and superstructures that are not suitable for productivity will change accordingly.

The complete connotation of informatization includes the following four aspects:

(1) Information network system, including information resources, various information systems, public communication network platforms, etc.

(2) Information industry foundation, including information science and technology research and development, information equipment manufacturing, information consulting services, etc.

(3) Social operating environment, including production relations and superstructure such as modern industry and agriculture, management systems, policies and laws, rules and regulations, culture and education, and moral concepts.

(4) The process of utility accumulation, including the quality of workers, the level of national modernization, the continuous improvement of people’s quality of life, and the continuous progress of spiritual and material civilization construction, etc.