Industry 4.0 in logistics and associated employee competencies – a technology providers’ perspective

Abstract

Digital transformation is a key driver for Industry 4.0 and converts production and logistics into a digitalized, interconnected, intelligent factory and supply chain. Associated technical developments are resulting in an enormous change in the requirements for employee competencies. Despite increasing automation, workforces and their skills are still of great importance for the successful utilization of innovative technologies. Until now, current research has scarcely focused on upcoming changes in technology-specific competencies due to digitalization and automation in logistics. The aim of this paper is to identify the competency requirements by means of semi-structured interviews with technology providers. The analysis indicates that demands for competencies change based on the use of hardware and software products. The paper identifies future relevant competencies and requirements for logistics employees so that Industry 4.0 technologies can be exploited. By analyzing changes in competencies, demands for qualifications and appropriate development and training for employees can be derived.