The Need for Kaizen Culture for Manufacturing Industries in Industry 4.0

Abstract

Purpose: The study aims to find the need for creativity in industry 4.0, To test whether creativity can be embraced by Kaizen. Theoretical framework: The problem statement is does Kaizen / Creativity to be extended to industry 4.0 and the same is researched with Literature reviews and with a set of Hypotheses. Design/methodology/approach: Survey questions were framed to check the linkage of creativity and industry 4.0, two hypotheses was tested, 30 samples from Experts in Industry and Academia contributed to the thoughts, and Correlations and SEM were used to conclude the findings. Findings: SPSS was used and principal component analysis with a “t” test was done to look at the correlation of independent variables to the above-mentioned hypothesis, the results revealed that there is a significant relationship with, effective communication, open innovation, Continuous Improvement, transformational leadership, collaboration, Goal clarity team autonomy, attitude, and knowledge enhancement. Research, Practical & Social implications: The sample size is less and can need to be tested on a larger sample size. The study can also be done in employees in industry 3.0 and industry 4.0 to check the effects. The practical implications is well tested in Industry 2.0 and Industry 3.0 The same needs to be continued for industry 4.0 to induce creativity thereby knowledge enhancement and Team Autonomy. Considering human behaviour this closed loop of problems. Kaizens is needed to sustain the innovation and thereby creating a culture of involvement and ownership. Originality/Value: There is active research in present times, researchers are showing keen interest on convincing the needs and benefits of Industry 4.0, but the behavioural aspect and its implications with industry 4.0 need to be explored. The next generation i.e. industry 4.0 will be more challenging, as there would be the challenge of a skilled workforce, and pressure for time/productivity will be high. People will be working in isolation (Sharing of thoughts and ideas will be limited Stalling of thinking approach). This may lead to psychological problems.The present study contributes to bridge this research gap.