RESEARCH ON THE INDUSTRY 4.0 STRATEGIES OF THE FIRMS

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to reveal the strategies of foreign trade companies that operate in Turkey on their Industry 4.0 applications and processes. In this research, the questions of "how the preparation strategies for Industry 4.0 are formed?" and "how Industry 4.0 application processes are experienced?" form a basis when discussing Industry 4.0 applications and processes of businesses. As a data-gathering method, a structured interview conducted with the interviewees who work at the Industry 4.0 related positions of the eight enterprises. The findings obtained from this data subject to the research are analyzed in the framework of the above questions. The findings of the analysis revealed that the transition strategies of the enterprises to Industry 4.0 have not reached the maturity stage yet, accomplished digital transformation, state support, and intellectual capital are required respects to ensure the transformation. Business executives note that competitiveness, branding, and contextual situations are important subjects when experiencing this transformational process.