This open access book explores the concept of Industry 4.0 which presents a considerable
challenge for the production and service sectors. While digitization initiatives are usually
integrated into the central corporate strategy of larger companies smaller firms often have
problems putting Industry 4.0 paradigms into practice. Small and medium-sized enterprises
(SMEs) possess neither the human nor financial resources to systematically investigate the
potential and risks of introducing Industry 4.0. Addressing this obstacle the international
team of authors focuses on the development of smart manufacturing concepts logistics solutions
and managerial models specifically for SMEs. Aiming to provide methodological frameworks and
pilot solutions for SMEs during their digital transformation this innovative and timely book
will be of great use to scholars researching technology management digitization and small
business as well as practitioners within manufacturing companies.
