Towards the Smart Factory A Roadmap Strategy for Heavy Automotive Assembly Plants

Abstract: Industry 4.0 comes with the promise of great benefits and transforming towards a Smart Factory is on the agenda for many organizations. The issue is that there is a lack of knowledge about how to make a successful transformation. The purpose of this research is to develop a framework for how a final assembly plant within the heavy automotive industry should structure a plan in order to accelerate the shift towards a Smart Factory in the context of Industry 4.0. To fulfill the purpose of the research, a case study has been performed. A maturity model has been used to assess the current state of the company and perceived importance of Industry 4.0 capabilities. This has been combined with an importance assessment from experts in the area, as well as literature regarding the subjects of Industry 4.0, Smart Factory and challenges with the transition. Theoretical frameworks have then been used to analyze how to structure a plan for the transition, based on the empirical findings and previous research. The transition towards a Smart Factory should incorporate strategic, organization and technical dimensions. A multilayered roadmap should be utilized as it enables for visualizing simultaneous activities and interconnections between dimensions. As external factors are necessary to be included, triggers points should be visualized as it enables checkpoints to be used. The case company importance weightings and challenges found in literature should mainly guide in the prioritization of needed capabilities. The assessed maturity should guide in choosing the Industry 4.0 capabilities which could reap the most benefits. The use of a vision and current state should guide in how to create activities with the purpose to support the chosen Industry 4.0 capabilities. The value of this research is the combination of maturity assessment with roadmap strategy, enabling for concrete actions to be formulated. Thusly, of value to companies that want to accelerate their transition towards a Smart Factory. The contribution of this research is a foundation for the creation of a tailored roadmap framework towards a Smart Factory.