Industry 4.0 solutions to address paradoxical effect of flexible work arrangements: tri-dimensional review and forward outlook
摘要
The COVID-19 epidemic challenged traditional work models and pinpointed the adoption of Flexible work arrangements (FWAs). This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of how Industry 4.0 (I4.0) solutions can facilitate FWAs in modern supply chains (SCs). Furthermore, this study explores the dual impact of FWAs within the SC context. Using a systematic literature review (SLR) approach, first, we performed descriptive and bibliometric analysis using R Studio and VOS viewer tools to critically analyze publication trends and identify key research gaps and emerging themes. This study identified key I4.0 technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence and machine learning (AIML), big data analytics (BDA), cloud computing (CC), cyber-physical-system (CPS), and robotics and automation that facilitate FWAs in modern SCs. Furthermore, uncovers the darker side of FWAs and at last presents a step-by-step roadmap for the implementation of FWAs using I4.0 solutions. This research reveals a significant research gap in the discourse on the interconnection between I4.0 and FWAs. This study aims to bridge the existing research gap by providing comprehensive insights into how I4.0 technologies intersect with FWAs and contribute to building resilient SCs amidst disruptions. The novelty of this study lies in the presented comprehensive framework that explicitly links I4.0 technologies to facilitate FWAs, uniquely maps implementation risk, considers stakeholder considerations, and ensures continuous improvement through feedback loops.