Interpretive Structural Modelling for Implementing Lean and Agile Maintenance Practices Enabled by Industry 4.0

This research develops a hierarchical framework for adopting lean and agile maintenance practices enabled by Industry 4.0 in the automobile industry. Nineteen factors from agile manufacturing, lean concepts, industry 4.0 technologies, and maintenance management were identified. A structured self-intersection matrix was constructed and then converted into an initial reachability matrix. The final reachability matrix was developed utilizing a transitivity assessment. Finally, the model factors were classified based on their driving and dependency powers. Maintenance performance improvement shows strong dependency power. However, the development of maintenance strategies, investment in Industry 4.0 technologies, and top management support have strong driving powers. Further, adopting industry 4.0 technologies enables the effective application of improvement practices. Validation was conducted in six automobile companies. Results revealed that Industry 4.0 technologies can significantly facilitate the adopting lean and agile manufacturing practices which lead to establish an effective maintenance management system. In conclusion, the developed ISM model can support managers in identifying, prioritizing, and managing improvement actions to boost repair performance.