Track: IE / OM in Asia and Africa

Abstract

Sri Lankan apparel industry is the most significant contributor to the country’s economy by constituting a large portion of GDP. In the competitive apparel world, manufacturers search solutions for future problems such as worker inadequacy to minimize human intervention to increase productivity. Therefore, there is a need to align value chain operations with the latest technologies. The world is now experiencing the fourth industrial revolution that integrates emerging digital technologies; cyber-physical systems, Internet of Things, big data, simulation, cloud computing and augmented reality. Industry 4.0 enhances process functions by providing real-time visibility for smooth production flow. Before aligning with Industry 4.0, there is an urgent need for assisting companies to improve their capabilities. Current literature mentions various existing readiness assessment models, but there is no standard and well-accepted model. This research presents applications of industry 4.0 in apparel industry and analysis of existing Industry 4.0 readiness assessment models based on systematic review of literature. Evaluation criteria were proposed to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each model. This study will guide academics to develop a standardized readiness assessment model for Industry 4.0 that fills the current research gap, while practitioners may find assistance in implementing appropriate scenarios in apparel industry.

Keywords: Industry 4.0, Apparel 4.0, Readiness assessment model, Sri Lankan apparel industry