Analysing challenges to the implementation of Quality 4.0 in Indian electronics industries: a Grey-DEMATEL approach

Purpose Quality 4.0 is a digital quality management concept where integrated high-speed digital technologies and systems are used to assure the product quality in parallel with production. Quality 4.0 embeds quality into products throughout the manufacturing process. The challenges are considered barriers and must be addressed and reduced to the maximum extent to achieve effective Quality 4.0 operations. In this study, Quality 4.0 barriers are identified and prioritised using cause-and-effect group analysis, thereby supporting their effective implementation. This study analysed the barriers to Quality 4.0 across the cultural, environmental and technological categories of the Indian electronic industry. Design/methodology/approach The barriers of Quality 4.0 have interrelationships. The Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method analyses those interrelationships and presents them in causal diagrams. Grey theory can be effectively applied to small samples and information with uncertainties. The main barriers of Quality 4.0 are thus selected and prioritised using an integrated DEMATEL-Grey approach that derives cause-and-effect groupings. Findings The results of the research reveal that a lack of awareness of Quality 4.0, a lack of an organisational culture for Quality 4.0 and resistance to change are the most significant barriers to Quality 4.0 in the Indian electronics industry. Furthermore, it has been determined that the other significant barriers to Quality 4.0 include inadequate training, high switching costs and a lack of standardisation. Originality/value Currently, there is a lack of literature on identifying and prioritising Quality 4.0 barriers in India's electronics industries. The study's conclusions will aid in integrating Quality 4.0 resources, ensuring real-time improvements in product quality and increased operational effectiveness. The insights of this study help the industry professionals to successfully implement Quality 4.0 in their organisations.