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Framework of Best Practices to Drive the Digital Transition: Towards a 4.0 Paradigm Based on Evidence from Case Studies

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  • Tiago Bastos

    (Departamento de Economia, Gestão, Engenharia Industrial e Turismo (DEGEIT), Universidade de Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
    Laboratório Associado de Sistemas Inteligentes (LASI), Instituto de Engenharia Eletrónica e Informática de Aveiro (IEETA), Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal)

  • Cármen Guimarães

    (Escola Superior de Design, Gestão e Tecnologias da Produção de Aveiro-Norte (ESAN), Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal)

  • Leonor Teixeira

    (Departamento de Economia, Gestão, Engenharia Industrial e Turismo (DEGEIT), Universidade de Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
    Laboratório Associado de Sistemas Inteligentes (LASI), Instituto de Engenharia Eletrónica e Informática de Aveiro (IEETA), Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal)

Abstract

In a technology-driven world, the concepts of digitalization and Industry 4.0 (I4.0) are an ever more present reality for companies. The benefits which these advancements offer, coupled with the market-driven pressure to reduce response times, have placed businesses in a technological “wave”, where it is imperative to adapt to avoid falling behind. While numerous studies focus on technological developments—such as definitions, capabilities, and potential benefits—few provide a systematic approach to best practices and recommendations for accelerating digital transformation while mitigating adverse impacts. In this study, case studies from 10 companies are analyzed to identify and systematize the best practices implemented in their digital transitions. The findings culminate in a best-practice framework for digital transition (DT), highlighting critical aspects such as understanding a company’s current state, acquiring external knowledge, and addressing the importance of cybersecurity and skilled staff. Concerning originality, this work presents an artifact based on manufacturing industry case studies, emphasizing the practical vision concerning DT.

Suggested Citation

  • Tiago Bastos & Cármen Guimarães & Leonor Teixeira, 2025. "Framework of Best Practices to Drive the Digital Transition: Towards a 4.0 Paradigm Based on Evidence from Case Studies," Future Internet, MDPI, vol. 17(2), pages 1-19, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jftint:v:17:y:2025:i:2:p:82-:d:1588712
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    3. Sidney A. Rothstein, 2024. "Transnational governance of digital transformation: financing innovation in Europe’s periphery," New Political Economy, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 29(2), pages 227-239, March.
    4. Natércia Durão & Carla Santos Pereira & Carla Lobo & Fernando Moreira, 2024. "Digitalization, Sustainability, and Internationalization Nexus: Insights from Portuguese Entrepreneurs," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(11), pages 1-24, June.
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