Data-driven assessment of digital maturity in industrial enterprises: a multi-layer model for strategy and transformation readiness

Industrial firms continue to experience substantial obstacles when attempting to adopt and operationalise key Industry 4.0 technologies.These challenges are often rooted in fragmented decision-making, inconsistent alignment between digital initiatives and corporate strategy, and limited analytical tools for verifying the actual state of organisational readiness.This paper proposes and validates a structured methodology for assessing the conformity of organisational processes with a generic digital maturity model through a multistage, evidence-based approach.The method integrates a systematic literature review, in-depth examination of internal corporate documentation, and a weighted matrix analysis applied to empirical data from an industrial firm.This procedure produces both an overall digital maturity index and a detailed layer-based profile covering strategic alignment, cost management, human resource capabilities, and implementation practices.The study introduces the concept of a "digital strategic centre of gravity" as an analytical instrument for identifying disproportions across maturity layers and tracing their causal mechanisms.This indicator enables the formulation of targeted, actionable recommendations aimed at restoring balance in the digital transformation trajectory.Empirical results reveal that the predominant constraints arise from insufficient alignment between digital and corporate strategies, weak cost governance mechanisms, and substantial competency gaps within the workforce.The proposed methodology moves beyond subjective self-assessments by offering a quantified, data-driven verification procedure.In doing so, it enhances diagnostic precision, strengthens strategy execution, and provides managers with a replicable framework for guiding evidence-based digital transformation.