Smart factory mapping and design: methodological approaches

Abstract Several studies show a demand for further transfer of Industry 4.0 concepts and technologies into practice. This paper describes how companies can be supported methodologically to identify individual opportunities optimization within their future smart factories. Existing methods are screened, recombined, enhanced create sufficient demand-oriented approach, based on the lean value stream mapping design. The final approach covers phase current state design state. It follows general principle process prior digitalization. Being highly visual method, it used explain needs motivation identified improvement initiatives all involved parties, including non-IT-specialists. also presents an exemplary result several learnings from tests with three discrete manufacturing processes.