Digital Transformation: Impact of Modern Technologies and Project Management on Optimization of Production Processes in Era of Industry 4.0

Adrian Stelmach

doi:10.7494/dmms.2024.si.6650

Authors

Adrian Stelmach EXPLITIA S.A., Piekary Śląskie, Poland, https://orcid.org/0009-0003-4994-1231

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7494/dmms.2024.si.6650

Keywords:

business-process management (BPM), Industry 4.0, digital transformation

Abstract

This article explores the impacts of digital transformations and new technologies in industrial sector (particularly through the Fourth Industrial Revolution) on optimizing production processes. Characterized by key technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), big data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), blockchains, and advanced robotics, Industry 4.0 has significantly shaped modern manufacturing management. IoT enables autonomous communications between machines and equipment, providing real-time insights into production parameters and enabling predictive maintenance, and big data plays a vital role by analyzing the large volumes of data that are generated by these devices, thus supporting informed management decisions. AI and machine learning help automate complex tasks, optimize production schedules, and improve product quality through real-time adjustments. Blockchain enables decentralized and secure data recording, which is particularly useful in supply-chain management. Advanced robotics increases production speed and accuracy, thus reducing labor costs and mitigating any risks that are associated with hazardous tasks. Integrating these technologies requires strategic planning, including identifying key challenges, conducting pilot projects, integrating with existing IT and OT systems, and managing organizational change. Measuring the effectiveness of Industry 4.0 implementation should involve well-defined key performance indicators (KPIs) and return-on-investment (ROI) analysis. The primary challenges that are associated with adopting Industry 4.0 include the alignment of technology with specific business needs, employee resistance to change, and hidden costs of implementation. In summary, industrial transformation offers opportunities for companies to optimize production processes, reduce costs, and increase competitiveness in the global marketplace. However, a careful approach is necessary to maximize efficiency, foster innovation, and secure long-term success in an increasingly digitalized world.

Author Biography

Adrian Stelmach, EXPLITIA S.A., Piekary Śląskie, Poland,

My passion for mathematics and computer science led me to pursue studies at the Silesian University of Technology. I studied automation, electronics, and computer science. After graduating, I began my career as a programmer in a company that developed solutions for the industrial sector. This allowed me to gain deep knowledge of production data flow and the challenges related to industrial automation.
Over time, I advanced to the position of manager, and later, IT director, where I was responsible for the sales and implementation of IT projects aligned with the Industry 4.0 concept.

Currently, as the CEO of EXPLITIA S.A., I oversee the complete digital transformation of manufacturing plants. My goal is to enhance the quality and safety of processes.

I also strive to fulfill my mission through active participation in industry events, writing expert articles, and giving interviews in the media.

I am the author of the book “15 Steps to Purchasing an IT System”, a member of the Forbes Technology Council, and a mentor at the Youth Business Poland Foundation.

References

Arinez J.F., Chang Q., Gao R.X., Xu C. & Zhang J. (2020). Artificial intelligence in advanced manufacturing: Current status and future outlook. Journal of Manufacturing Science and Engineering, 142(11), 110804. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1115/1.4047855.

Azamfirei V., Psarommatis F. & Lagrosen Y. (2023). Application of automation for in-line quality inspection, a zero-defect manufacturing approach. Journal of Manufacturing Systems, 67, pp. 1–22. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmsy.2022.12.010.

Baur C. & Wee D. (2015). Manufacturing’s next act. URL: http://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/operations/our-insights/manufacturings-next-act [4.10.2024].

Deloitte (2023). Using blockchain to drive supply chain transparency and innovation. URL: https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/pages/operations/articles/blockchain-supply-chain-innovation.html [4.10.2024].

FasterCapital (2024). Cost of digital transformation: The hidden costs of digital transformation: A guide for entrepreneurs. URL: https://fastercapital.com/content/Cost-of-digital-transformation--The-Hidden-Costs-of-Digital-Transformation--A-Guide-for-Entrepreneurs.html [7.10.2024].

Gilchrist A. (2016). Industry 4.0: The Industrial Internet of Things. Berkeley, CA, USA: Apress. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4842-2047-4.

Kagermann H., Wahlster W. & Helbig J. (2013). Recommendations for implementing the strategic initiative INDUSTRIE 4.0. Final report of the Industrie 4.0 Working Group. Frankfurt: acatech – National Academy of Science and Engineering. URL: https://www.din.de/resource/blob/76902/e8cac883f42bf28536e7e8165993f1fd/recommendations-for-implementing-industry-4-0-data.pdf [4.10.2024].

Kevin M.M., Sreenadh T.S. & Mindhun P. (2019). Industry 4.0 and its effect on sustainability in smart factory, logistics, CPS, IoT. International Journal of Mechanical and Production Engineering, 7(9), pp. 49–52. URL: https://www.iraj.in/journal/journal_file/journal_pdf/2-592-157468502949-52.pdf [7.10.2024].

Limaj B. (2023). The role of AI in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). URL: https://medium.com/@besniklimaj/the-role-of-ai-in-the-fourth-industrial-revolution-4ir-2b115145804b [7.10.2024].

Lu Y. (2017). Industry 4.0: A survey on technologies, applications and open research issues. Journal of Industrial Information Integration, 6, pp. 1–10. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jii.2017.04.005.

Mayer-Schönberger V. & Cukier K. (2013). Big Data: A Revolution That Will Transform How We Live, Work, and Think. Boston, New York: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

Mitchell M. (2019). Artificial Intelligence: A Guide for Thinking Humans. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

Schwab K. (2016). The Fourth Industrial Revolution. Geneva: World Economic Forum. URL: https://law.unimelb.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/3385454/Schwab-The_Fourth_Industrial_Revolution_Klaus_S.pdf [7.10.2024].

Siebel T.M. (2019). Digital Transformation: Survive and Thrive in an Era of Mass Extinction. New York: RosettaBooks.

Tarantino A. (2022). Smart Manufacturing: The Lean Six Sigma Way. New York: John Wiley & Sons.

Waclawek H., Schäfer G., Binder C., Hirsch E. & Huber S. (2023). Digital twins of business processes as enablers for IT / OT integration. Proceedings of the IEEE International Conference on Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management (IEEM), pp. 1–5. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1109/indin51400.2023.10217905.