Effect of Industry 4.0 technologies adoption on the learning process of workers in a quality inspection operation

This study examines the effect of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies on the learning process of operators. We collected data from the training of new operators in a quality inspection workstation. Two distinct scenarios were considered: before and after the adoption of I4.0 technologies. Data from 10 operators were collected in each scenario; the quality inspection cycle was repeated by each operator 30 consecutive times. A 2-parameter hyperbolic learning curve model was used to assess the learning process in the two groups. Results indicated that operators supported by I4.0 technologies had a significantly higher learning rate than those performing the same tasks without I4.0 support. No significant difference was found in the final performance level between groups. Our study bridges a theoretical gap in the relationship between I4.0 and learning by directly comparing the effect of digital support on the training of new employees in a manufacturing environment. We also offer arguments to support managerial decisions with regards to I4.0 adopti-on at an operational level. That allows organisations to prioritise their digitalisation efforts so that the training of operators in workstations can be expedited.