Pathway for Industry 4.0 implementation in a Lean Manufacturing environment: evidence from Sri Lankan apparel sector

The fourth industrial revolution (I4.0) was based on several technological pillars developed over the years. Organizations are expected to embrace these technologies to realize the benefits associated with I4.0. However, manufacturing organizations that have optimized their operations through lean management philosophies need a clear pathway to embrace the I4.0 technologies without disrupting the existing good practices. Therefore, this study aims to conceptualize a much-needed path for implementing I4.0 technologies in a Lean environment. To achieve that, researchers followed a qualitative approach and an exploratory framework. Researchers started with Apparel organizations with highest export revenue and employed a snowball sampling approach within each organization to identify the most suitable professionals for the study. The data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews conducted through Zoom online platform. The collected data was analyzed through thematic analysis, allowing the identification of different themes. Our findings suggest that such a pathway involves four steps: (1) setting a Lean base, (2) strategic management, (3) human resource development, and (4) getting external support. Since the implementation of I4.0 technologies in a Lean environment is a relatively recent phenomenon, our study provides guidelines for managers and practitioners to help them prioritize efforts and narrow their attention more objectively to the proper mix of procedures and technologies.