The adoption of Industry 4.0 solutions as a remedy against the pandemic crisis– the case of Polish companies

Abstract

Purpose: The authors aim to briefly present the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies among Polish companies in the realm of the VUCA world. These solutions may work as measures that increase the resilience of companies against the Covid-19 crisis and support the recovery in “the new normal” reality. Design/methodology/approach: The paper combines literature studies with an empirical investigation in the form of computer-assisted telephone interviews conducted among 400 Polish manufacturing companies. Findings: Polish industrial manufacturing firms lag in implementing I4.0 technologies compared to their Western European counterparts. Research limitations/implications: The empirical part of the study was conducted among Polish companies. Similar studies among firms from other CEE countries will be necessary to conclude about this part of the world’s readiness to adopt 4.0 technologies. Practical implications: The pandemic era and increasing I4.0 adoption pose particular tasks for companies. They should revise their contractual arrangements with IT service providers and focus on data privacy and security topics, but also industry-specific regulations. Triggered by the Covid-19 crisis, these actions may contribute to developing companies’ comprehensive digital strategy in the “new normal” reality. Originality and value: The chapter contributes to the discussion on the readiness of companies and economies to adopt the Industry 4.0 technologies. It also provides the level of the adoption of these solutions in the context of a post-transition economy.