Application of the industry 4.0 maturity model to industrial SME: 6 case studies

Abstract

The development of Industry 4.0 in industrial companies has led to the integration of physical objects, people, and smart machines in the production lines in the pursuit of efficient production processes with high added value. Here, small- and medium-sized companies have faced serious problems in developing and implementing Industry 4.0-related strategies and tools in their production processes. Thus, maturity models related to Industry 4.0 provide a strong perspective when it comes to guiding companies on their current state and path in implementing the appropriate strategies and tools. In the present paper, we show the results of the assessment procedure carried out by six SMEs from different industrial sectors located in the Basque Country (Spain); the assessment was carried out using the IMPULS maturity model with the aim of identifying steps to improve the implementation of Industry 4.0 techniques and strategies. The main finding underlines the need for SMEs to develop an Industry 4.0 strategy adapted to their industrial sector and the need to develop projects related to cybersecurity.