The integration of Lean and Industry 4.0 is a field that has attracted great interest among researchers in recent years. Despite its potential in terms of improving competitiveness for companies, its practical implementation is still unresolved. The purpose of this study is to propose a framework for a practical implementation, considering Lean as an enabler of Industry 4.0.
A systematic review of the literature has been carried out to identify the main gaps in existing frameworks. These limitations have served as requirements for the design of a new framework that has been validated by applying the action research methodology in a manufacturing company.
This study identifies some key aspects for the successful deployment of Lean and Industry 4.0. Thus, the initial assessment with a Lean approach turns out to be a clear enabler for the subsequent deployment of Industry 4.0. Other critical aspects are the measurement of key indicators measurement or the leadership role of shop floor employees in information and decision-making.
This study contributes to enriching the theory of Lean and I4.0 integration by proposing an innovative framework that offers solutions to the problems raised by Lean and I4.0 researchers.
The proposed framework is a useful tool for managers and practitioners on how to deploy Lean and Industry 4.0 to increase their competitiveness.
This study takes an innovative and novel approach by proposing solutions to the constraints that have been identified in current frameworks. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, it is the first framework to include a roadmap for practical implementation and to place shop floor employees at the centre of the implementation. In terms of the results obtained, the authors emphasise as a novel aspect that Lean Automation helps to improve not only productivity and performance but also the reliability of the process.
