Exploring the Challenges and Opportunities of Implementing Industry 4.0 in Jordan: Public Shareholding Manufacturing Companies Perspective

Abstract

Abstract Industry 4.0 (the fourth industrial revolution) involves swift and ongoing technological changes affecting industries and societies because of advanced automation, communication and data exchange, and global connectivity. While its implementation is necessary for organizational success in the face of international competition, many challenges arise with its opportunities. This research is an investigation of the challenges (employee qualification, employee acceptance, organizational, and production fit) and opportunities (strategic, operational, environmental, and social) in the implementation of Industry 4.0 in public shareholding manufacturing companies in Jordan. A questionnaire-based approach for primary data collection with analysis via Smart-PLS was taken. The results revealed that organizational and production fit challenges, strategic opportunities, operational opportunities, and environmental and social opportunities are positively associated with Industry 4.0 implementation, while employee qualification and acceptance challenges are negatively associated. The study explained that there is not enough knowledge about Industry 4.0. This study offers guidance for establishing regulations related to Industry 4.0 implementation by removing challenges and adopting opportunities. Also, this study is an approach for further research about the development of communications in Jordan and global connectivity.