Industry 4.0 Evolutionary Framework: The Increasing Need to Include the Human Factor

Abstract

Since 2011, when it appeared as a concept, Industry 4.0 has been expanding worldwide, impacting many organizations’ productivity, performance, and supply chain management, especially in some developed economies. Prior research in Industry 4.0 has focused mainly on the conceptualization, modeling, and technological and operative improvements in the supply chain. Based on a systematic literature review and considering the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic as a major milestone in the global industry, this study proposes a new framework, divided into three phases, for the analysis of the evolution of Industry 4.0, considering the importance of including the human factor as much as technology selection and change management. To achieve long-term business success, the implementation of Industry 4.0 must consider the human aspect, such as middle management leadership, the challenges of empowering the operator 4.0, and the well-being of workers. Moreover, Industry 4.0 could foster a more sustainable, inclusive, and diverse business.