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From lean production to Industrie 4.0. More autonomy for employees?

Author

Listed:
  • Butollo, Florian
  • Jürgens, Ulrich
  • Krzywdzinski, Martin

Abstract

The article examines the relationship between lean production and Industrie 4.0 focusing on the question of autonomy in the work process. In contrast to the claim made by official Industrie 4.0 concepts that the autonomy of the employees would increase, we see in the current implementation projects a tendency towards greater standardization and control of work. This is in continuity with concepts of lean production, but neglects the participation-oriented elements of lean production such as teamwork and shop-floor-based improvement activities. Our argument is developed by analyzing practical examples from three relevant fields (digital assistance systems, data-based process management, modular assembly). The conclusions of this article also discuss the extent to which the concept of individual autonomy is suitable for the assessment of Industrie 4.0 concepts, given the high levels of interdependence already achieved in production processes.

Suggested Citation

  • Butollo, Florian & Jürgens, Ulrich & Krzywdzinski, Martin, 2018. "From lean production to Industrie 4.0. More autonomy for employees?," Discussion Papers, Research Group Globalization, Work, and Production SP III 2018-303, WZB Berlin Social Science Center.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:wzbgwp:spiii2018303
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    technological change; production systems; work organization; labor relations; manufacturing; Technologischer Wandel; Produktionssysteme; Arbeitsorganisation; Arbeitsbeziehungen; Verarbeitendes Gewerbe;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • M54 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Personnel Economics - - - Labor Management
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes

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