Continuous processes show dynamics during load changes, start-up and shutdowns whereas batch processes exhibit inherent dynamics. In the past, the major concern of automating these dynamics states of process operation were safe and reproducible operation, however, today modern methods of process operation allow for the economic optimization at the same time. The automation and optimization of batch processes pose challenges in several areas: Mastering the high complexity, connecting heterogeneous components by automation, and combining extensive knowledge from both process engineering and automation during project execution. This contribution describes approaches from industrial practice and punctually academic research, which solutions for the challenges are readily available and how to implement these.