Search Results (708)

With the acceleration of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the South Korean government has promoted the Smart Factory Construction Support Project as a core strategy for the digital transformation of manufacturing, particularly targeting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). While more than 35,000 smart factories had been established by 2024, systematic evidence on the policy’s economic impact remains limited. This study evaluates the effectiveness of government support for smart factories by analyzing SME financial performance between 2018 and 2021. Specifically, it investigates whether smart factory adoption—supported by government subsidies—led to improvements in sales growth and compound annual growth rate (CAGR). To address potential selection bias, propensity score matching (PSM) was employed to construct a comparable control group of non-recipient firms. The findings show that, after accounting for confounding variables, supported firms demonstrated improvements in sales-based growth metrics compared to their non-supported counterparts, thereby confirming a positive policy effect. These results provide empirical justification for sustained public investment in digital transformation initiatives, while also highlighting the importance of employing rigorous causal inference methods in policy evaluation. Full article

Work is historically evolving due to technological advancements, posing challenges for individuals and institutions. The actual Fourth Industrial Revolution, marked by AI, biotechnology, and nanotechnology, has rapidly increased these advancements, while the COVID-19 pandemic has anticipated future expected changes in the labor market. In this context, Higher Education Institutions must match their curricula with this dynamic labor market to equip graduates with relevant skills. However, the slow pace of educational transformation, partly due to a lack of data, hinders this alignment. This research introduces Future-oriented Higher Education Degree Employability (Fo-HECE) as an evaluation tool for the adherence of undergraduate degrees to the demands of the labor market in the next decade. We used a novel approach, combining the Operationalization of a social phenomenon with Multi-Criteria Decision-Making, with the participation of nine experts. As a use case, we applied the new approach to assess the future employability of ten undergraduate programs with the most enrolled students from one of the largest Brazilian universities. As a result, the indicators considered most relevant to measure Fo-HECE are Student-to-Job Ratio, Employment Balance, and Wage Premium. The degrees with the highest Fo-HECE grades were Law and Medicine, while Physical Education had the lowest grade. The Fo-HECE approach, as demonstrated in this case study, shows potential applicability to other HEIs and countries, provided that comparable labor market data are available. Full article

Academic researchers in technical and policy fields tend to pay little attention to the metaphysical and ontological ‘priors’ that nevertheless structure and determine scientific strategies and results. Green political agendas rooted in ecological modernization (EM) are distinguished from antecedent visions predicated on biophysical limits. Net zero is shown to be rooted in a project of global EM. Ecomodernism is analyzed in relation to its principal actors, geopolitical context and underlying metaphysics and anthropology. It is driven by non-negotiable societal priorities (‘ends’), which themselves derive from a particular set of technical ‘means’. The top-down version of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR4.0) and new paradigm of global net zero constitute an integrated agenda of eco-modernism. Global net zero cannot hope to achieve its own metabolic goals in respect of either energy flows or the circular economy. A competing, bottom-up and distributed model of the IR4.0 could potentially achieve these targets without falling prey to the Jevons paradox. This potential turns on the greater capacity of low-overhead, prosumer models to nurture less materialist cultural priorities that are more communitarian and family-oriented. A smart energy system that emerges in the context of distributed, domestic and informal production is much more likely to mirror the complex, infinitely gradated and granular pattern of oscillating energy transfers that are characteristic of biological systems. From an ecological economic perspective, such a bottom-up approach to the IR4.0 is much more likely to see the orders of magnitude reduction in the unit energetic cost of social complexity envisaged, in principle, by net zero. Through this comprehensive review of the metaphysical and ontological priors of mainstream IR4.0, researchers in the linked fields of energy and circular economy are presented with a wider range of potential options less constrained by preconceived assumptions about the ‘ends’ of societal development and progress. Full article

This study examines the digital maturity of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the context of Industry 4.0. Despite growing awareness of the importance of digital transformation, many SMEs encounter structural and strategic challenges that impede their progress. Among their obstacles is the inadequacy of digital maturity models used to diagnose digital maturity levels in SMEs due to their typological, sectoral, geographical, and other specific characteristics. Using a constructivist and qualitative approach, we have developed a simplified, inclusive, and holistic assessment framework comprising six key dimensions (technology, culture, organization, people and human resources, strategic planning), associated with six progressive maturity levels. Our findings reveal that most SMEs studied in 2023 exhibit a beginner level of digital maturity. These enterprises are characterized by small-scale digital initiatives, often lacking a clear strategy, with limited or partial digitization of processes and heterogeneous technology adoption. The resulting self-assessment tool provides SMEs with practical guidance to launch, evaluate, and accelerate their digital transformation. This study contributes theoretically by proposing a practical digital maturity model and offering a tool to support SMEs and public policy. It highlights the need for tailored support, strategic alignment, and continuous training to unlock the full potential of Industry 4.0 in less urbanized and resource-constrained areas. Full article

The implementation and impact of inclusivity and accessibility in the banking sector are crucial to the banking sector’s participation of any country in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1, 4, 5, 8, 10, 11, 16 and 17. This study examines the implementation and impact of inclusivity and accessibility in the South African banking sector, with a focus on the Free State province. Guided by the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF) and Institutional Theory, this research employs a quantitative, deductive approach to assess two core objectives: (1) the alignment of fintech banking practices with selected Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and (2) the identification of barriers to inclusivity and accessibility for women and youth. A stratified random sample of 208 banking professionals—comprising front-line employees, supervisors, and managers—was surveyed using a Likert-type questionnaire. Data were analysed using SPSS version 21. The findings reveal significant progress toward SDGs 1, 4, 5, 8, 10, 11, 16, and 17, reflected in a female-majority workforce, a youthful and educated employee base, and a nationally oriented employment strategy. These attributes signal a strong institutional commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development. The sector also demonstrates readiness for fintech innovation, supported by high levels of training adequacy, relevance, and accessibility, indicating robust human capital and institutional adaptability to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and AI-driven transformation. However, persistent structural barriers—particularly in leadership representation and digital access for women and youth—highlight the need for targeted policy interventions. Integrating inclusive fintech strategies, equitable training frameworks, and development programs is essential to sustaining progress and achieving the goals of the National Development Plan (NDP) and the SDGs. The Free State banking sector offers a promising model for inclusive institutional transformation aligned with global sustainability agendas. Full article

Background: This study explored the dynamics of sustainability literacy among industry professionals to advance the adoption of sustainability initiatives within the Malawi construction industry. Specifically, it examined the key attitudinal indicators (KAIs), driving factors, and barriers influencing sustainability literacy. Method: A quantitative research approach was employed, utilizing a well-structured questionnaire for data collection with a sample size of seventy-five (75) and built environment professionals as respondents. The collected data were analyzed using two inferential statistical methods: the Mean Item Score (MIS) and Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA). Results: The EFA results identified two key components of KAIs that affect sustainability literacy: an inertia mindset and psychosocial inertia. Two primary driving factors were revealed: Perceived Benefits and Integrated Digital Capacity-Building Initiatives. This study also highlighted two major categories of barriers: inter- and intra-institutional barriers and Poor Sustainability Governance. Based on the research findings, this study proposes six policy recommendations: (1) development of a Green Paper on sustainable practices, (2) mandatory SLP on sustainable and green building practices, (3) continuous professional development (CPD) incentives for sustainability literacy, (4) economic incentives for sustainability adoption, (5) establishment of sustainability learning hubs, and (6) leveraging Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies to enhance practical sustainability training. Conclusions: The study concludes that achieving meaningful progress in sustainability literacy requires transformational leadership to drive change across the industry. Full article

This study examines how strategic human resource management (SHRM) practices in pharmaceutical multinational enterprises (MNEs) operating in Greece are influenced by digital innovation and social dialogue. Structured questionnaires were distributed to 82 participants across seven large pharmaceutical MNEs in Greece, using purposive and stratified sampling to capture perspectives from senior managers, middle managers, and specialized employees. Findings indicate that while digital tools are present in SHRM systems, their integration remains functional rather than strategic. Social dialogue mechanisms exist but exert limited influence on decision-making. The study proposes that SHRM models—economies like Greece (characterized by medium-level competitiveness performance)—must be recontextualized to account for organizational learning capacities, and the strategic alignment between innovation, management, and social dialogue. We suggest that MNEs in the pharmaceutical sector should invest in integrated SHRM systems that prioritize cross-functional collaboration, localized adaptability, and participatory governance. Full article

A principal factor of the fourth Industrial Revolution is the Internet of Things (IoT), a network of “smart” objects that communicate by exchanging helpful information about themselves and their environment. Our research aims to address the gaps in the existing literature regarding the educational and technological affordances of IoT applications in learning environments in secondary education. Our systematic review using the PRISMA method allowed us to extract 25 empirical studies from the last 10 years. We present the categorization of educational and technological affordances, as well as the devices used in these environments. Moreover, our findings indicate widespread adoption of organized educational activities and design-based learning, often incorporating tangible interfaces, smart objects, and IoT applications, which enhance student engagement and interaction. Additionally, we identify the impact of IoT-based learning on knowledge building, autonomous learning, student attitude, and motivation. The results suggest that the IoT can facilitate personalized and experiential learning, fostering a more immersive and adaptive educational experience. Based on these findings, we discuss key recommendations for educators, policymakers, and researchers, while also addressing this study’s limitations and potential directions for future research. Full article

The development of Industry 4-oriented facilities in academia for training and research purposes is playing a significant role in pushing forward the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This study can serve academic staff who are intending to build their Industry 4 facilities, to better understand the key features, constraints, and opportunities. This paper presents a systematic literature review of 145 peer-reviewed studies published between 2011 and 2023, which are identified across Scopus, SpringerLink, and Web of Science. As a result, we emphasise the significance of developing Industry 4 learning facilities in academia and outline the main design principles of the Industry 4 ecosystems. We also investigate and discuss the key Industry 4-related technologies that have been extensively used and represented in the reviewed literature, and summarise the challenges and roadblocks that current participants are facing. From these insights, we identify research gaps, outline technology mapping and maturity level, and propose a strategic roadmap for future implementation of Industry 4 facilities. The results of the research are expected to support current and future participants in increasing their awareness of the significance of the development, clarifying the research scope and objectives, and preparing them to deal with inherent complexity and skills issues. Full article

Since the beginning of the last decade, digital technological achievements have ushered the economies of developed countries into the fourth industrial revolution, transforming industries into smart ones, referred to as “Industry 4.0”, enabling them to innovate as a prerequisite for sustainable development and economic growth. At the same time, the European Union’s institutions are adopting strategies and programs to transform the European industry into a climate-neutral one, aiming to achieve this by 2050. The authors, participating in the introduction of Lean tools and digital technologies into one of the European shipyards using the “CULIS” (Connect Universal Lean Improvement System) methodology, recognize the high potential of its contribution to the European Commission’s guidelines for transitioning the economy to a sustainable one, and for this purpose, they present it in this paper. Namely, the methodology in question not only theoretically results in a “quick” implementation of tools and doctrines—with an approximately 36-month total duration of the process—but also encompasses as many as three transformations: Lean, digital, and green; an analysis of a methodology with such characteristics significantly adds to the originality of this study. The current stage of the observed shipyard’s “triple” transformation process already results in significant improvements—e.g., an increase in productivity by around 21% or a reduction in sales process costs by 38%. However, given its ongoing pilot phase, (further) analyses of improvements in (European) shipbuilding competitiveness and profitability that can be achieved through digital Lean management of projects’ realization process are implied. Full article

The Fourth Industrial Revolution and artificial intelligence (AI) technology are driving the transformation of the meat industry from mechanization and automation to intelligence and digitization. This paper provides a systematic review of key technological innovations in this field, including physical technologies (such as smart cutting precision improved to the millimeter level, pulse electric field sterilization efficiency exceeding 90%, ultrasonic-assisted marinating time reduced by 12 h, and ultra-high-pressure processing extending shelf life) and digital technologies (IoT real-time monitoring, blockchain-enhanced traceability transparency, and AI-optimized production decision-making). Additionally, it explores the potential of alternative meat production technologies (cell-cultured meat and 3D bioprinting) to disrupt traditional models. In application scenarios such as central kitchen efficiency improvements (e.g., food companies leveraging the “S2B2C” model to apply AI agents, supply chain management, and intelligent control systems, resulting in a 26.98% increase in overall profits), end-to-end temperature control in cold chain logistics (e.g., using multi-array sensors for real-time monitoring of meat spoilage), intelligent freshness recognition of products (based on deep learning or sensors), and personalized customization (e.g., 3D-printed customized nutritional meat products), these technologies have significantly improved production efficiency, product quality, and safety. However, large-scale application still faces key challenges, including high costs (such as the high investment in cell-cultured meat bioreactors), lack of standardization (such as the absence of unified standards for non-thermal technology parameters), and consumer acceptance (surveys indicate that approximately 41% of consumers are concerned about contracting illnesses from consuming cultured meat, and only 25% are willing to try it). These challenges constrain the economic viability and market promotion of the aforementioned technologies. Future efforts should focus on collaborative innovation to establish a truly intelligent and sustainable meat production system. Full article

The rapid evolution of the Fourth Industrial Revolution has significantly transformed educational practices, necessitating the integration of advanced technologies into higher education to address contemporary sustainability challenges. This study explores the integration of interactive metaverse environments and generative artificial intelligence (GAI) in promoting the green digital economy and developing e-entrepreneurship skills among graduate students. Grounded in a quasi-experimental design, the research was conducted with a sample of 25 postgraduate students enrolled in the “Computers in Education” course at King Khalid University. A 3D immersive learning environment (FrameVR) was combined with GAI platforms (ChatGPT version 4.0, Elai.io version 2.5, Tome version 1.3) to create an innovative educational experience. Data were collected using validated instruments, including the Green Digital Economy Scale, the e-Entrepreneurship Scale, and a digital product evaluation rubric. The findings revealed statistically significant improvements in students’ awareness of green digital concepts, entrepreneurial competencies, and their ability to produce sustainable digital products. The study highlights the potential of immersive virtual learning environments and AI-driven content creation tools in enhancing digital literacy and sustainability-oriented innovation. It also underscores the urgent need to update educational strategies and curricula to prepare future professionals capable of navigating and shaping green digital economies. This research provides a practical and replicable model for universities seeking to embed sustainability through emerging technologies, supporting broader goals such as SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). Full article

This research investigates the spillover effects between assets of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), focusing on the role of climate policy uncertainty in shaping these interactions. Using a time-varying parameter vector autoregressive (TVP-VAR) approach and a joint connectedness method, the analysis incorporates five global indices representing key 4IR domains: the internet, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and robotics, fintech, and blockchain. The findings reveal significant interdependencies among 4IR assets and evaluate the effect of risk factors, including climate policy uncertainty, as a critical driver of the determinants of returns. The results indicate the growing impact of climate-related risks on the structure of connectedness between 4IR assets, highlighting their implications for portfolio diversification and risk management. These insights are vital for investors and policymakers navigating the intersection of technological innovation and environmental challenges in a rapidly changing global economy. Full article

This study addresses the multi-robot task allocation (MRTA) problem for logistics robots operating in zone-picking warehouse environments. With the rapid growth of e-commerce and the Fourth Industrial Revolution, logistics robots are increasingly deployed to manage high-volume order fulfillment. However, efficiently assigning tasks to multiple robots is a complex and computationally intensive problem. To address this, we propose a five-step optimization framework that reduces computation time while maintaining practical applicability. The first step calculates and stores distances and paths between product locations using the A* algorithm, enabling reuse in subsequent computations. The second step performs hierarchical clustering of orders based on spatial similarity and capacity constraints to reduce the problem size. In the third step, the traveling salesman problem (TSP) is formulated to determine the optimal execution sequence within each cluster. The fourth step uses a mixed integer linear programming (MILP) model to allocate clusters to robots while minimizing the overall makespan. Finally, the fifth step incorporates battery constraints by optimizing the task sequence and partial charging schedule for each robot. Numerical experiments were conducted using up to 1000 orders and 100 robots, and the results confirmed that the proposed method is scalable and effective for large-scale scenarios. Full article