Sustainable Lean Performance Potential Amidst the Transition Process from Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0

This study examines how selected technological and human-centered factors affect sustainable lean performance potential (SLPP) in manufacturing enterprises within the context of Industry 4.0 transition to Industry 5.0. The relationship between SLPP and Industry 4. transition to Industry 5.0 is contextual, meaning this direct relationship is not analyzed via statistical methods. A structured survey was conducted with 128 managers (n = 128), focusing on human-centric technology design (HCTD), artificial intelligence for waste minimization (AIWM), predictive maintenance (PMAI), and IoT integration in production (IOTP). The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, linear regression analysis, Harman’s single-factor test results, multicollinearity test, and non-linear curve estimation analysis. The results show that all four independent variables are positively associated with SLPP. IoT integration and AI for waste minimization had the strongest effects, followed by predictive maintenance. Human-centric technology design showed a weaker, yet still statistically significant, relationship with SLPP. The findings support a model where digital tools contribute directly to lean and sustainable outcomes, while human-centered approaches are emerging more gradually. The research adds empirical evidence to ongoing discussions about factors affecting lean performance in the context of industrial changes.