Analysis of the disruptions of the digital revolution and its impacts on the evolution of continuous improvement methodologies and lean six-sigma

Abstract

This research paper delves into the importance of continuous and lean improvements within the context of Industry 4.0. As businesses navigate the digital revolution, enhancing efficiency, effectiveness, and adaptability becomes paramount for maintaining competitiveness. The paper examines the principles of continuous and lean improvements, assessing their relevance in the Industry 4.0 landscape. Utilizing a grounded theory approach, it scrutinizes Industry 4.0 characteristics, market dynamics, disruptive forces, change management tools, and the attainment of lean operations. The findings emphasize the crucial role of continuous and lean improvements in enabling firms to navigate the dynamic Industry 4.0 landscape, effectively respond to market disruptions, and deliver enhanced value to customers. By providing actionable insights, the research paper equips companies to thrive in the digital revolution and leverage Industry 4.0 for sustainable growth. Data from 156 firms, gathered through a five-points-Likert scale questionnaire, informs the research paper. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS) software are used for statistical analyses that look at multicollinearity, content validity, and consistency, construct validity, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and the links between technological disruptions, the rise of agile companies, and overall performance. Results indicate that industry transformations directly and indirectly influence the evolution of Industry 4.0 and agility, empowering companies to develop effective strategies to overcome challenges posed by the digital revolution. To achieve this, companies must overhaul production systems, adopt innovative relationship management approaches, recognize and utilize existing organizational knowledge, and integrate it into product development, production operations, and marketing strategies.