Key factors for collaboration between stakeholders in Industry 4.0 manufacturing projects: Amplifying project support

ABSTRACT Purpose: The implementation of new technologies in Industry 4.0 integrates companies and enables project stakeholders to combine their knowledge and interests and, consequently amplifying project support. This study aimed to present key factors that facilitate collaboration between stakeholders in Industry 4.0 manufacturing projects. Originality/value: Despite collaboration being frequently mentioned in Industry 4.0 academic research, only a few studies have investigated the crucial factors for collaboration between project stakeholders. Design/methodology/approach: We chose an exploratory and qualitative approach. Based on data from semi-structured interviews and secondary documents, seven Industry 4.0 projects were characterized. A comparative content analysis led to eight factors facilitating collaboration in these smart manufacturing projects. Findings: The key factors for collaboration between stakeholders in manufacturing projects of Industry 4.0 were: the definition of shared goals, joint problem-solving, information exchange, trust relationships, top management support, learning mindset, end-user centrality, and long-term relationships. Conclusions: As a theoretical implication, we showed that Industry 4.0 projects facilitate the implementation of new business models in manufacturing companies. Besides, as a practical implication, we showed leading manufacturers organizing central 4.0 teams as collaboration hubs.