Why Industrie 4.0 Needs Workplace Innovation—A Critical Essay About the German Debate on Advanced Manufacturing

Abstract

In the international debate, the digitalization of industry and development of 'advanced manufacturing' occupy an important position as significant factors for maintaining competitiveness and safeguarding jobs. In Germany, in recent years, the term 'Industrie 4.0' has increasingly featured in this debate. Given that the capabilities of digital systems are unquestionably increasing, we argue that the debate surrounding 'Industrie 4.0' is in need of considerable reorientation, in light of a new innovation paradigm, so that the real challenges in the transition to a knowledge-based society are not missed. Effective approaches should build on existing strengths. One suitable approach which could excellently integrate the various participative working cultures specific to Europe and the new requirements of 'Industrie 4.0' is a consistent orientation to high involvement innovation practices. These concepts, much in agreement to workplace innovation, are often about emphasising the close relationship between organisational performance (labour productivity, innovation capabilities) and better jobs (competence development, wellbeing at work). Furthermore, a sustainable approach should take into account the contribution to be made by future industrial structures to addressing the big social challenges (e.g. environment, health, demographic change). We briefly outline the vision of 'Industrie 4.0' and its problems. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)