Toshiba is designing a next-generation control room that promises safer and more stable operation based on use of ''safeware'' and an integrated design concept. This paper discusses advanced methods and technologies for automating power-generation plants. First of all, the historical development of plant-automation technologies are summarized, then, Toshiba GSXPTM (Global System for neXt Power Plant) is introduced as a typical present-day system. Finally, as an example of a next-generation system applying advanced system technologies, three on-going studies and a future control-room design are introduced.