Implementation of Industry 4.0 elements and their impact on the enterprise productivity

Abstract

Purpose: The main incentive for choosing the topic of the study is related to the need to look for solutions to fundamental problems related to the activities of manufacturing enterprises that must meet the requirements of market competition by achieving competitive advantages and increasing productivity. The subject of the study are advanced manufacturing technologies, characterized by a high level of innovation and automation, and their impact on the productivity of a manufacturing company. The aim of the study is to assess the impact advanced manufacturing technologies on the productivity and production quality on the example of a company producing parts and components for rail vehicles. Design/methodology/approach: the study analyzed the literature on productivity and calculated productivity indicators based on the company's financial data. Moreover, the participant observation method was used to assess the reorganization of the production process, and a survey was conducted for company employees to determine the validity of the implemented technological investments. The case study concerns a company producing parts and components for rail vehicles. Findings: The level of approval of investments in advanced manufacturing technologies and their impact on the quality and efficiency of the manufacturing process of was determined. The implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies allowed the company to: shortened the manufacturing process by approximately 40%, the number of procedures was reduced from nine to five, and the number of employees participating in it was reduced from ten to five. Originality/value: assessment of the effects of the use of advanced technologies, the study is addressed to the management of manufacturing enterprises. Keywords: productivity, manufacturing technologies, production, improvement. Category of the paper: Research paper.