Exploring Critical Success Factors in the Adoption of Industry 4.0 by Using DEMATEL Technique

Globalization has created a highly competitive and diverse market, an uncertain and risky business environment, and changing customer expectations. An effective manufacturing strategy reduces complexity and provides organizations with a well-organized manufacturing structure. However, existing research on “Industry 4.0 adoption” appears scattered, lacking systematic understanding and finding no causal relationship between critical success factors (CSFs) in the adoption of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) and their importance. Therefore, this study discusses the essential factors of success for implementing (I4.0) in SMEs operating in clothing sector in Morocco, which have differing specific application characteristics from the conditions in other countries, utilizing the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) approach. This method is considered an effective method for identifying the cause-effect relationship of complex problems. It evaluates interdependent relationships among CSFs from the perspective of academic and industry experts. Identifying cause and effect factors leads to increasing the market’s competitiveness and prioritizing them. Results show that Organization and environment are the main dimensions to successfully implement I4.0.