Adoption of modern technologies for implementing industry 4.0: an integrated MCDM approach

Purpose: Modern technologies are seen as an essential component of the fourth industrial revolution (industry 4.0) and their adoption is vital to transform the existing manufacturing system into industry 4.0-based manufacturing system. Therefore, the primary objective of this research explores the barriers of modern technology adoption and their mitigating solutions in order to align with Industry 4.0 objectives. Design/methodology/approach: Barriers to adopting modern technologies and respective mitigating solutions are identified from the available literature. Further, these barriers are ranked with the help of expert opinions by using the BWM method appropriately. The identified solutions are ranked using the combined compromise solution (CoCoSo) method. Findings: Several modern technologies and their capabilities are recognised to support the industry 4.0-based manufacturing systems. This study identifies 22 barriers to the effective adoption of modern technologies in manufacturing and 14 solutions to overcome these barriers. Change management, the high initial cost of technology and appropriate support infrastructure are the most significant barriers. The most prominent solutions to overcome the most considerable barriers are ‘supportive research, development and commercialisation environment’, ‘updated policy and effective implementation’ and ‘capacity building through training’ that are the top three solutions that need to be addressed. Research limitations/implications: The barriers and solutions of modern technology adoption are obtained through a comprehensive literature review, so there is a chance to ignore some significant barriers and their solutions. Furthermore, ranking barriers and solutions is done with expert opinion, which is not free from biases. Practical implications: This identification and prioritisation of barriers will help managers to understand the barriers so they can better prepare themselves. Furthermore, the suggested solutions to overcome these barriers are helpful for the managers and could be strategically adopted through optimal resource utilisation. Originality/value: This study proposes a framework to identify and analyse the significant barriers and solutions to adopting modern technologies in the manufacturing system. It might be helpful for manufacturing organisations that are willing to transform their manufacturing system into industry 4.0.