The link between lean manufacturing and Industry 4.0 for product development process: a systemic approach

Abstract

Purpose This research examines the impact of integrating lean manufacturing (LM) principles and Industry 4.0 (I4.0) into the product development process (PDP) of manufacturing companies in southern Brazil, with the objective of improving market performance (MP). Design/methodology/approach A survey was conducted with 110 product development managers to evaluate the level of LM and I4.0 principles, PDP phases, and the improvement of MP. Quantitative analysis was employed to analyse the data, including confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and ordinary least squares (OLS) hierarchical regression. Findings The study reveals that integrating LM and I4.0 principles in the PDP enhances product development and positively impacts the MP of manufacturing companies. Additionally, I4.0 partially mediates the LM-PDP relationship, while LM partially mediates the I4.0-PDP relationship, highlighting their interdependence rather than one being a prerequisite for the other. Research limitations/implications The study has limitations regarding its narrow focus on product development managers in Brazil and the absence of multiple case studies. Practical implications The study emphasises the importance of coordinated efforts in manufacturing companies to adopt and manage both LM and I4.0 principles, as they positively impact all phases of the PDP and ultimately contribute to the overall MP of the companies. Originality/value The novelty of this study lies in its systemic approach, examining the relationships and effects of LM and I4.0 principles on the PDP, and demonstrating how these effects manifest in manufacturing companies.