Adopting Quality Management Practices in the Industry 4.0 Era: An Investigation into the Challenges

In this transformative phase of Industry 4.0, the integration of advanced digital technologies into traditional manufacturing processes presents a paradigm shift in quality management. This seminal study ventures into the forefront of this transition, uncovering the intricate challenges impeding the adoption of Quality Management Practices (QMP) amidst digital innovation. Leveraging a comprehensive survey with 172 quality management professionals, alongside the methodological rigour of Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), our research delineates fifteen pivotal barriers to the harmonious integration of digital technologies with quality management systems. Predominantly, ‘Organisational Behaviour’ and ‘Information Technology and Governance’ surface as critical dimensions, outlining the complex landscape stakeholders must navigate. Central to our findings are leadership, cybersecurity, data protection, and organisational structure, underscored as the primary challenges that demand strategic focus. This investigation offers a pioneering framework for global stakeholders, illuminating a path forward in the quest for Quality 4.0. It marks a significant contribution to the literature by proposing a roadmap for organisations striving for excellence and innovation in the Industry 4.0 era, advocating for a seamless fusion of digital transformation and quality management.