Challenges Faced by Businesses in the Mining Industry in the Context of the Industry 4.0 Philosophy

Abstract

Abstract This article presents the challenges that mining companies have in the face of the Industry 4.0 philosophy. Transformation of mining businesses into Industry 4.0 appears unavoidable. Due to the specific nature of the sector, the transformation will not be an easy one. This paper discusses the obstacles and challenges related to the transformation of businesses in the mining industry into the Industry 4.0. The history of industrial revolutions was presented, also as the idea of Industry 4.0 with its basic components. The concept of Industry 4.0 is also outlined and the studies which indicate the key issues in the transformation process are also cited. Based on these studies, it can be seen that the vast majority are issues in the field of production engineering and properly educated and qualified staff. Four main areas in which transformation into Industry 4.0 should be taking place are identified. Particular emphasis is placed on the area of technology and organizational culture. The mutual relations of management functions and ICT technologies have also been presented, which is one of the elements of the idea of Industry 4.0. Finally, the potential benefits for the organizational culture of the business of implementing the Industry 4.0 concepts are discussed.