Abstract

The article proposes directions for future research into how Human-Centered Design (HCD) Approaches can be used to address challenges posed by Industry 4.0. Traditional shop-floor industry management frameworks, such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, DMAIC, and PDCA, were successfully applied in ordered domains. However, Industry 4.0 exponential technological progressions have shifted the shop-floor industry into a complex domain, causing significant challenges in employee engagement and leadership. Designers have been mastering complex domains in multiple sectors, so the article argues that HCD Approaches are well-positioned to address these challenges. A threefold method was adopted for exploring the interplay between HCD and Industry 4.0. First, a review was conducted about industry 4.0 challenges, encompassing traditional industry management, digital transformation and innovation, agile and startup management, culture, and design practices. Second, Cynefin Framework was applied to understand these challenges domains. Third, a thematic analysis was conducted suggesting that Human-Centered Design approaches have the potential to address the industry 4.0 challenges. The results suggest that HCD Approaches are appropriate to solve these 4.0 Challenges According to the Cynefin Framework, both are positioned in Complex Domains, substantially impacting employee engagement and leadership. However, this proposition needs to be explored further because there is a lack of empirical studies on applying HCD in Industry management fields, particularly on the shop floor.