Digitalization in Manufacturing – Employees, Do You Want to Work There?

Abstract

IT-driven transformation processes in manufacturing result in major changes for employees’ daily work and they are ever-present in media and research, called inter alia digitalization, computerization or Industry 4.0. A variety of research focuses on these new hardware and software technologies. Research dealing with motivational processes and attitudes of employees in manufacturing, however, is lacking. How do they face these changes? Data were collected using a standardized questionnaire (KFZA) that was returned by n = 109 apprentices working in manufacturing. The questionnaire queried the actual state of the work situation, as well as the target state. Additionally, fears, opportunities, and general aspects participants associate with a highly digitalized work environment, were also investigated. Results are divided. Firstly, they show that young employees are negatively opposed to the changes of Industry 4.0 and digitalization in manufacturing as they fear massive job losses. Then again, they favour the idea of learning something new, having a greater degree of self-determination, and versatility, which is also connected to future work tasks. Thus, early clarification of realistic risks and chances connected to digitalization in manufacturing is necessary in order to prevent young employees from being resigned and disillusioned before they even start their professional career.