Empowering Industry 4.0: systemizing readiness assessment and strategic roadmapping for digital transformation

Purpose Industry 4.0 entails digitalizing organizational assets and creating interconnected infrastructure driven by digital technologies. This study aims to aid organizations in adopting Industry 4.0 through a comprehensive readiness model and a strategic roadmap. The study formulates a tailored roadmap based on organizational readiness assessment to maximize the benefits of the transformative transition. Design/methodology/approach The study began with a systematic literature review (SLR) to identify dimensions of Industry 4.0 readiness. Content validity ratio (CVR) was then used to evaluate these dimensions, followed by the Delphi method to gather data from organizational experts. Kendall’s coefficient of concordance (w) measured consensus among experts. This methodological approach allowed for the systematic identification and validation of Industry 4.0 readiness dimensions, integrating scholarly literature and expert consensus. Findings The SLR method identified key dimensions of Industry 4.0 readiness models. The top 10 dimensions were selected for the readiness model. After implementation in the organization under study, readiness scores were determined for each dimension, and then, action plans were made for all dimensions and the outcomes were presented as a meticulously designed strategic roadmap. Research limitations/implications This research outlines the domains, actions and timing needed for organizations to thrive in Industry 4.0. It aims in identifying necessary steps and timelines by introducing the Industry 4.0 readiness model and efficient targeting methodology, along with designing strategic roadmaps. Ultimately, this research streamlines the journey toward achieving maturity in the context of the fourth industrial revolution. Practical implications In this study, a comprehensive and practical Industry 4.0 readiness model is developed to assist managers in assessing the level of Industry 4.0 readiness within their organizations. It aims to target the desired level of integration into the fourth industrial revolution and to design strategic roadmaps that outline necessary actions across various targeting phases and specific timeframes. Originality/value This study extensively examined various Industry 4.0 readiness models, employing appropriate methodologies to develop the research model. Subsequently, the model was applied within one of the largest home appliance factories in West Asia and resultant findings were obtained. Finally, action plans were delineated to attain the desired state of Industry 4.0 readiness. Moreover, dimension-specific roadmaps were presented across three targeting phases for effective integration into the fourth industrial revolution.