Awareness and Readiness for Industry 4.0: Examining Employee Perceptions Toward the Adoption of Emerging Technologies in Gujarat

Abstract

Industry 4.0 has revolutionized the manufacturing and service sectors, emphasizing automation, data-driven decision-making, and smart technologies (Schwab, 2016). However, the successful adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies depends on employee awareness, readiness, and training exposure (Lee & Lee, 2020). This study examines the awareness and readiness levels of employees across industries in Gujarat, India. Using 170 responses from professionals across various demographic backgrounds, the study employs non-parametric statistical tests (Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis, and Spearman’s correlation) to analyse relationships between demographic factors, awareness, readiness, and training exposure. Results indicate significant differences in readiness across gender and age groups and a strong positive correlation between awareness and readiness (ρ = 0.72, p < .001). Training exposure also moderately correlates with readiness (ρ = 0.65, p < .001), highlighting the importance of skill development programs (Manyika et al., 2017). These findings suggest that organizations must enhance training and awareness initiatives to ensure a smooth transition to Industry 4.0.