Toward lean industry 5.0: a human-centered model for integrating lean and industry 4.0 in an automotive supplier (2509.11658v1)

Abstract: This paper proposes a human-centered conceptual model integrating lean and Industry 4.0 based on the literature review and validated it through a case study in the context of an advanced automotive first-tier supplier. Addressing a significant gap in existing research on lean Industry 4.0 implementations, the study provides both theoretical insights and practical findings. It emphasizes the importance of a human-centered approach, identifies key enablers and barriers. In the implementation process of the case study, it is considered at group level and model site level through operational, social and technological perspectives in a five-phase multi-method approach. It shows what effective human-centered lean Industry 4.0 implementation look like and how advanced lean tools can be digitized. It highlights 26 positive and 10 negative aspects of the case and their causal relation. With the appropriate internal and external technological knowhow and people skills, it shows how successful implementation can benefit the organization and employees based on the conceptual model that serves as a first step toward lean Industry 5.0.