Implementing Industry 4.0 in Moroccan Industrial Enterprises as a Response to the Challenges Posed by the Covid-19 Crisis

Abstract

The swift advancement of technology is fundamentally transforming the industrial landscape, steering it towards Industry 4.0, a digitized and interconnected framework crucial for ensuring production resilience, especially in the wake of global challenges like the Covid-19 pandemic. The far-reaching consequences of this crisis, marked by disruptions, temporary closures, and economic downturns across sectors, underscore the imperative for Industry 4.0 adoption. This new industrial paradigm not only addresses challenges but also brings forth advantages such as heightened productivity, personalized production processes, and streamlined information management. Nevertheless, it introduces complexities, including technology and cybersecurity risks, necessitating continuous workforce training. The vulnerabilities of traditional industrial models have been glaringly emphasized by the Covid-19 pandemic, highlighting the u rgent need for digital transformation. Industry 4.0 has emerged not just as a technological evolution but as a strategic lifeline for companies navigating unprecedented disruptions. In response, companies have embraced Industry 4.0 practices, employing remote collaboration, robust document management, and advanced assistance tools. A case study involving 68 Moroccan companies illustrates the positive impact of these practices during the Covid-19 crisis. Remarkably, over 50 % of these companies reported maintaining or increasing their sales by strategically leveraging digital solutions. This case study serves as compelling evidence of the pivotal role of Industry 4.0 in reinforcing business resilience amid challenging circumstances.

Keywords

• covid-19 pandemic
• industry 4.0
• global challenges
• digitalization
• impact
• technology evolution