University of Twente Student Theses
The Role of Employee Expectations in AI Adoption: A Pre-Implementation Case Study in the Manufacturing Industry
Geurtsen, Sam (2025) The Role of Employee Expectations in AI Adoption: A Pre-Implementation Case Study in the Manufacturing Industry.
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| Abstract: | The increasing adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in manufacturing marks a pivotal shift in how organizations approach operational planning. While extensive literature exists on the technical and economic benefits of AI, limited attention has been paid to the role of employee expectations during the pre-implementation phase. This thesis investigates how employee expectations influence the adoption potential of AI-based planning systems within a manufacturing context. Grounded in the context of Industry 4.0 and drawing upon concepts form social cognitive theory and digital readiness, this study adopts a qualitative, single case research design. Sixteen semi-structured interviews were conducted across multiple planning-related departments to understand how employees perceive AI technologies and how these perceptions act as enablers or barriers to adoption. The findings reveal a nuanced spectrum of employee attitudes, ranging from optimism about AI's potential to concerns regarding its impact on roles, decision-making, and organizational culture. The analysis underscores that positive expectations alone are insufficient; alignment between organizational readiness and individual agency plays a critical role in adoption success. This research offers practical implications for change managers and planners seeking to foster employee engagement and trust during digital transitions, thereby enhancing the likelihood of successful AI integration into planning systems. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 70 social sciences in general, 71 sociology, 85 business administration, organizational science |
| Programme: | Business Administration MSc (60644) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/106223 |
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