Platform Operations in the Industry 4.0 Era: Recent Advances and the 3As Framework

Abstract

In the Industry 4.0 era, implementing advanced technologies to enhance platform operations is crucial. Motivated by the importance of platforms and the wide implementation of Industry 4.0-related advanced technologies, we conduct this study on platform operations. Specifically, the platforms discussed herein are classified into (pure) product selling platforms and service platforms. We identify the platform-related operational issues in four categories: 1) the use of information, 2) operating/manufacturing processes, 3) decision support, and 4) consumer behavior and marketing. Based on the examined real-world practices and reviewed prior studies, we propose the novel “3As” framework to indicate how platforms should “adopt” advanced technologies to “address” operational issues to “achieve” outcomes. In addition, the “3As” framework uncovers possible platform innovations with three extended developments. Finally, we present a future agenda for further studies on the use of advanced technologies in platform operations. This article contributes to the operations and engineering management literature by generating insights regarding the implementation of advanced technologies in platform operations in the Industry 4.0 era.