1. Critically evaluate the core technologies and principles of Industry 4.0 and their Strategic implications across sectors

University Learning Outcome: Knowledge and Understanding, Analysis

2. Apply socio-technical systems thinking to analyse the transformation of organisational structures, workforce roles, and human–machine interactions in Industry 4.0 environments

University Learning Outcome: Analysis, Application

3. Design a digital transformation strategy that integrates technological, human, and ethical dimensions for sustainable implementation

University Learning Outcome: Application, Problem Solving, Evaluation

4. Critically reflect on the digital leadership competencies and collaborative change management strategies required to effectively lead Industry 4.0 transformations

University Learning Outcome: Reflection, Learning

1. Digital Transformation Strategy Report (Individual – 70%)

Develop a strategic report for an organisation (real or simulated) undergoing an Industry 4.0 transformation. Must include technology scoping (e.g. IoT, automation, data), operational, change readiness, and a strategic roadmap. Include digital maturity analysis (SWOT/PESTLE), key risks, and enablers (LOs covered: 1, 2, 3)

2. Group Panel Presentation (Group – 30%)

Topic: “Is Industry 4.0 more about technology or people?”

Working in groups, students will research and present a balanced analysis of both the technological advancements and the human, socio-cultural dimensions of Industry 4.0. The panel should be delivered in a structured, facilitated format, encouraging critical dialogue and multiple stakeholder perspectives. (LOs covered: 4)

Professional Body requirements for Engineering students mean that for them, a minimum overall score of 50% is required to pass this module, with a minimum mark of 40% in each element of assessment.

This module explores the transformational impact of Industry 4.0 technologies on organisations, supply chains, business models, and workforce dynamics. It enables students to critically engage with the strategic and operational implications of digitalisation, robotics, IoT, AI, automation, and cyber-physical systems — while also reflecting on the socio-technical challenges of managing change in a rapidly evolving industrial landscape.

Indicative content includes Digital transformation strategies, Internet of Things (IoT), AI, robotics, blockchain, digital twins, Smart manufacturing and warehousing, Cyber-physical systems and data integration, Human–machine collaboration; socio-technical theory, Change leadership in digital contexts, Ethical and sustainability issues in automation, Workforce transformation, upskilling, and digital inclusion.

This module enables you to examine the strategic and operational implications of Industry 4.0 — the convergence of digital, physical, and biological technologies — on modern organisations. You will explore how technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, automation, and cyber-physical systems are reshaping business models, value chains, and workforce dynamics. Emphasising a socio-technical systems approach, the module encourages you to critically reflect on the human, ethical, and organisational challenges of leading digital transformation in complex environments. You will develop the analytical, strategic, and leadership capabilities required to design and lead Industry 4.0 initiatives with sustainability, inclusivity, and agility in mind.

This module is delivered with a mixture of taught lectures and tutorials, supported by independent student learning, research, guided reading, and online webcasts/videos.

Various white papers from companies like Honeywell and Rockwell automation

Werbik, A.; Nussbaum, J.; Winter, J. (2024). Coming Home in the Age of Industry 4.0? The Effects of Offshoring and Backshoring on Manufacturing Companies' Success. Sustainability, 6(4), 58. https://doi.org/10.3390/sci6040058

Griffiths, F., & Ooi, G. (2021). Digital Transformation and Human Experience: A Socio-Technical Systems Approach. Springer.

Schwab, K. & David, N. (2018). Shaping The Future of the Fourth Industrial Revolution – A guide to building a better world, Crown Publishing

Kagermann, H., Wahlster, W., & Helbig, J. (2013). Recommendations for implementing the strategic initiative INDUSTRIE 4.0. Acatech.

Morrar, R., Arman, H., & Mousa, S. (2017). The Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0): A Social Innovation Perspective. Technology Innovation Management Review, 7(11), 12–20.

Brettel, M., Friederichsen, N., Keller, M., & Rosenberg, M. (2014). How Virtualization, Decentralization and Network Building Change the Manufacturing Landscape: An Industry 4.0 Perspective. International Journal of Mechanical, Aerospace, Industrial, Mechatronic and Manufacturing Engineering.

Westerman, G., Bonnet, D., & McAfee, A. (2014). Leading Digital: Turning Technology into Business Transformation. Harvard Business Review Press.

Porter, M.E., & Heppelmann, J.E. (2014). How Smart, Connected Products Are Transforming Competition. Harvard Business Review.

Wang, K., et al. (2016). Cloud-Based Smart Manufacturing for Industry 4.0: A Review of Research Challenges. Computers in Industry.

Brennen, S., & Kreiss, D. (2016). Digitalization and Digitization. Culture Digitally.

European Commission Reports on Digital Transformation and the Future of Work.

The University Library and Learning Resources
Westlaw e-library
The module VLE (LMS T & L material)
Selected contemporary problem/practice-based case examples