A readiness assessment of Quality 4.0 in packaging companies: an empirical investigation

Quality 4.0 is the new paradigm in the field of quality management, due to the advent of technological advancement and digital transformation of many organizations. The field of Quality 4.0 is still in its nascent stage, and there is no self-assessment tool to assess whether an organization is ready or not in implementing Quality 4.0. This study uses a five-phase approach to develop a Quality 4.0 readiness self-assessment tool. Phase 1 of the study was devoted to a literature review to identify the readiness factors and sub-factors. In Phase 2 experts’ opinions sought sure that none of the readiness factors are missed out in our research. Phase 3 was devoted to questionnaire development. Phase 4 was devoted to data collection. In this phase, we identified 6 packaging companies that were willing to participate in the research. Phase 5 was devoted to data analysis and readiness assessment for each of the factors and sub-factors across the participating organizations. The readiness factors identified in the study were: top management commitment and support, leadership, organizational culture, employee competency, and ISO QMS Standard in place. Further, a methodology was developed to classify the participating organizations into five different quality readiness assessment levels.