University of Twente Student Theses
A brain of metal : responsible strategic action for metal manufacturing SMEs in a smart industry context
Holst, G.M. (2020) A brain of metal : responsible strategic action for metal manufacturing SMEs in a smart industry context.
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| Abstract: | Industry 4.0 is becoming an inescapable part of the way future manufacturing will look. Thus, companies need to find ways to adapt to the more digital environment, connectivity of machines and a more demanding customer. SMEs face different challenges than larger companies do when adapting to industry 4.0. To analyze how SMEs in the metal industry in the Netherlands best can overcome these challenges, first, descriptive data about 15 dimensions is gathered using a scan, second using empirical data the importance of each dimension is identified. Using these measurements, multiple requirements, that SMEs need to meet, are identified to overcome potential obstacles. The main finding of the research is that there is a significant lack of knowledge in the industry concerning industry 4.0, its potential, the technologies and how to adapt. Next to that, the focus of SMEs in this industry lies on the production possibilities of industry 4.0, almost completely neglecting the servitization aspects that industry 4.0 offers. Furthermore, a threat is identified that SMEs might not oversee the potential of new industry 4.0 technologies that can replace a part of the manufacturing process. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Bachelor) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 85 business administration, organizational science |
| Programme: | International Business Administration BSc (50952) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/81803 |
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