From human-centric to value co-creation: a staged model of human-AI collaboration in smart manufacturing

Purpose This paper aims to examine how manufacturing enterprises manage the organizational changes triggered by artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and theorizes the staged evolution of human–AI collaboration through shifts in routines and dominant logic. Design/methodology/approach Drawing on dominant logic and routine dynamics theory, we apply the Gioia methodology to analyze in-depth interview data from 30 manufacturing managers. Findings The analysis uncovers a three-stage evolution of dominant logics – shifting from human-centric to alignment optimization and ultimately to value co-creation. Each stage drives changes in organizational routine, deepening the collaboration between humans and AI. Originality/value This paper proposes a theoretical model that captures the progression of human–AI collaboration. This model advances our understanding of AI-driven organizational change and provides actionable insights for manufacturers seeking intelligent transformation.