Research and Resource Papers
Digital transformation is not a luxury, but a necessity. It is also an essential part of business survival. As such, it is crucial for SMEs to identify the steps needed to have a digitally enabled business environment, and to be digitally ready to survive and thrive in the rapidly changing marketplace. The handbook provides useful guide in strategizing and implementing Industry 4.0 digital approaches for SMEs to remain ahead of the game.
APO has brought out this publication at a time when smart manufacturing is being recognized as a key leverage for raising productivity growth, more so after the pandemic-induced degrowth and slowdown. With some members that are already at an advanced level of smart manufacturing adoption, it is time for other APO member economies to accelerate. From policymaking at the national level to crafting strategies at the enterprise level, this publication offers a multitude of frameworks and implementation plans that the stakeholders can adapt and use.
Transformation is never easy. The manufacturing journey undertaken by 15 companies in five member countries at various stages of Industry 4.0 are highlighted here as case studies. They offer invaluable insights on necessary analysis, collaborations, what to expect, moving forward, and the strategy needed to drive the transformation of manufacturing in every country.
Be ready for it – the full force of Industry 4.0 is imminent. This revolution is already showing impacts in a nation’s economy, its ways of living and working, and on the workforce of the future. Countries have no choice but to be prepared and adapt to this rapid pace of doing things. This publication highlights the ways governments in eight member countries nurture human capital to ensure that they can thrive in the future.
