International Journal of Industrial Engineering and Management

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Original Research Article

On Job Profiles Enlargement and Enrichment when Lean and Industry 4.0 Paradigms Meet

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  • Chiara Cimini,
  • Alexandra Lagorio,
  • David Romero,
  • Paolo Gaiardelli,
  • Guilherme Tortorella
Chiara Cimini
University of Bergamo, Department of Management, Information and Production Engineering, Dalmine (BG), Italy
Alexandra Lagorio
University of Bergamo, Department of Management, Information and Production Engineering, Dalmine (BG), Italy
David Romero
Tecnológico de Monterrey, Departments of Industrial Engineering and Mechatronics, Mexico City, Mexico
Paolo Gaiardelli
University of Bergamo, Department of Management, Information and Production Engineering, Dalmine (BG), Italy
Guilherme Tortorella
The University of Melbourne, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Melbourne, Australia
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24867/IJIEM-2024-4-367

Published 2024-10-17

abstract views: 27 // FULL TEXT ARTICLE (PDF): 32


Keywords

  • Lean manufacturing,
  • Industry 4.0,
  • Workforce 4.0,
  • Job enlargement,
  • Job enrichment

How to Cite

Cimini, C., Lagorio, A., Romero, D., Gaiardelli, P., & Tortorella, G. (2024). On Job Profiles Enlargement and Enrichment when Lean and Industry 4.0 Paradigms Meet. International Journal of Industrial Engineering and Management, article in press. https://doi.org/10.24867/IJIEM-2024-4-367

Copyright (c) 2024 International Journal of Industrial Engineering and Management

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Abstract

Integrating Industry 4.0 technologies in Lean Manufacturing shop floors is reshaping job profiles, emphasising increased task variety and the demand for diverse skills among workers. The conventional perception of operators solely performing specialised tasks is transforming into one where they are viewed as flexible production resources capable of managing a spectrum of activities. The accompanying flexibility necessitates the enlargement and enrichment of skills and responsibilities undertaken by workers on “Digital Lean shop floors”. This research delves into the evolving definitions of “Job Enrichment” and “Job Enlargement” as discerned by Lean Manufacturing and Industry 4.0 experts through a comprehensive Delphi study. The investigation of these concepts holds theoretical and practical significance, as they serve as pivotal techniques in the (re-)design of job profiles. Understanding their current meanings is crucial, given their potential to elevate the motivational levels of workers, enhance job satisfaction, and consequently improve work performance and productivity. This exploration is essential in pursuing socially sustainable factories in the (near-)future, aligning with the transformative goals of Industry 4.0.

Article history: Received (February 13, 2024); Revised (July 22, 2024); Accepted (September 23, 2024); Published online (October 17, 2024)

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FULL TEXT ARTICLE (PDF)
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