Acting in concert leads to success: how to implement Industry 4.0 effectively across companies

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of the study is to shed light on how to implement Industry 4.0 effectively across companies in buyer–supplier relationships.Design/methodology/approachThe study follows an exploratory research design and analyzes qualitative empirical data of eight case companies from the German automotive industry. The data are inductively categorized to uncover patterns and structures in a qualitative content analysis, whereupon a deeper data structure is developed.FindingsThe research reveals that a comprehensive implementation approach is required to pave the way for digitalized and interconnected supply chains. Several challenges occur during the implementation, such as system heterogeneity and resource scarcity. Prerequisites and fundamentals for a successful implementation include a vision and strategy, management involvement, and sufficient resources. Lastly, indications on how to conduct the implementations were found.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is based on an exploratory methodology, analyzing data from the German automotive industry. The methodology entails some limitations, and caution must be given when transferring the results to different industries and national contexts. Future studies could complement the findings by studying different contexts and including further supply chain levels.Practical implicationsManagers and practitioners can study the recurring themes in the implementation approaches and the best practices and subsequently learn from the experiences. This knowledge could aid to shape the strategy of companies accordingly.Originality/valueThe study empirically sheds light on the Industry 4.0 implementation approach across companies in buyer–supplier relationships and helps to understand the success factors and underlying mechanisms.