Towards a technology acceptance methodology for Industry 4.0

Industry 4.0 fuses ubiquitous computing and leads to a culmination of physical, digital, and biological paradigms. Previously inanimate objects are enabled to “talk” to each other and to the users, and guide specific behaviours of speed, breadth, depth, and systems impact. Research suggests however that 70% of large-scale technological change programs don't reach their stated goals. Current theories and methodologies including Technological Transitions (TT), Digital Transformation (DT), Technology Acceptance Models (TAM, TAM2 & UTAUT), Multi-Level Perspectives (MLP), come with challenges and limitations. Management and key decision makers need new tools that will assist them to identify which factors their companies must consider to efficiently adapt to Industry 4.0. The aim of this paper is to address existing TAM, DT and MLP challenges, and propose an Industry 4.0 specific digital transformation model, involving business and management practices. Ideas, best practices and different prospective, from diverse markets and industries, will be mitigated and combined. The synergetic methodology will support management, enhance organizational problem-solving capabilities, and provide recommendations to formulate a strategic approach based on company lifecycle, corporate governance, enterprise culture, change management, company size and structure. Key lessons learned will help in forming evolutionary perspectives specific to the needs and challenges of Industry 4.0 transitions.