Industry 4.0 technologies adoption and obstacles in manufacturing SMEs – challenges for strategy and organisational learning

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to examine the adoption of key Industry 4.0 technologies, perceived obstacles and the role of organisational learning in manufacturing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It also explores how contingency factors such as employee count, turnover, research and development (R&D) spending and technological intensity influence adoption and obstacle severity.

Design/methodology/approach A quantitative survey of 95 Finnish manufacturing SMEs was conducted. Hierarchical clustering identified typologies of technologies and obstacles, and multivariate analyses tested the effects of contingency factors. Organisational learning theory was used to interpret the findings.

Findings Two clusters of technologies and obstacles were identified. Technology clusters reflect stages of organisational learning, while obstacle clusters distinguish between internal learning needs and external strategic coordination demands. Employee count and R&D spending were significantly associated with adoption, but not obstacle severity.

Originality/value This study provides a unified empirical framework and a learning-based interpretation of SME digital transformation.