Implementation of Digital Tools for Lean Manufacturing: An Empirical Analysis

Purpose: The literature on Lean Manufacturing and Industry 4.0 has identified a strong link between the two paradigms and a positive impact on operational performances. Industry 4.0 offers digital tools to support LM tools and practices. However, empirical and in-depth analyses to validate such propositions are still scarce in the literature. Therefore, the observation of the implementation of Industry 4.0 tools for Lean Manufacturing with a focus on the factors needed for properly introducing them in firms is the next logical step to further strengthen this area of research. This study aims to understand the required factors needed to take into consideration for a successful implementation of the tools in the manufacturing process. Methodology: We rely on multiple case studies performed in 6 Italian Manufacturing companies that adopt digital tools for Lean Manufacturing. Findings: Our findings highlighted the central role of skills, the need for a specialized team to oversee the implementation in addition to better formulation of the tool’s offerings by the suppliers through successful case studies. We also tried to connect individually each tool with the operational performance it aims at improving.