A substantial body of research has already been dedicated to exploring the benefits of digital twins, particularly in the context of meeting the growing demands of contemporary production systems. However, prior research fails to provide specific insights into the decisions, KPIs, and users associated with various time horizons and the corresponding benefits of digital twins. This ambiguity poses significant risks, jeopardizing not only the effectiveness of developing digital twins but also the intended outcomes these systems are meant to achieve. It is imperative to consider the fundamental question of the purpose and intended beneficiaries of digital twin development from the preliminary stage in order to guide their development and increase their usability. The study focused on a co-developed digital twin with a Swedish global manufacturer, alongside broader reflections on purpose-driven requirements and potential applications based on post-development input from managers and shopfloor leaders, as well as additional proposed use cases. This publication offers a contribution by presenting an assessment matrix evaluating the strategic, operational, and tactical dimensions of digital twins in relation to cost, delivery, quality, and sustainability. In doing so, it asserts that digital twins transcend mere theoretical digital models, evolving into purpose-driven tools that deliver tangible value and impact in manufacturing.