Synergizing Humanity and Technology: A Human-Machine Collaboration for Business Sustainability in Industry 5.0

In the context of Industry 5.0, this paper emphasizes the crucial role of human-machine collaboration for sustainable business practices. It explores the need for a people-centric approach, recognizing the significance of the human workforce alongside advanced technologies. The study investigates three influential theories—Actor-Network Theory (ANT), Activity Theory, and Socio-Technical Systems Theory (STS)—proposing a novel Socio-Technical Interaction Network (STIN) model that synthesizes their strengths. The STIN model views systems as intricate networks of diverse actors, both human and non-human, acknowledging their agency and interactions within socio-technical environments. By incorporating elements from each theory, it prioritizes contextual analysis, considering socio-cultural and environmental influences on human-technology interactions. The STIN model aims to provide a holistic lens for interdisciplinary research and guide the design of technology-infused systems aligned with human needs and societal contexts. In conclusion, human-machine collaboration is deemed not just a technological necessity but a strategic imperative for organizations striving for long-term sustainability in Industry 5.0, fostering adaptability, innovation, and sustainable practices.