Global knowledge Archives Vol. 11 No. S1 Especia (2026): Global Knowledge Journal Article

Efficiency, competitiveness and sustainability in industry 4.0: an organizational transformation approach

José Morelos-Gómez
Universidad de Cartagena
Jesús Amaris Alvarado
Universidad de Cartagena
Diego Alonso Cardona
Universidad de Cartagena
Abstract

The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the literature on the impact of these three variables in the context of Industry 4.0. The research was conducted using the PRISMA methodology, considering scientific articles published between 2020 and 2025 and indexed in the Scopus database. Initially, 7,439 publications were identified; after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 635 articles were selected, and subsequently, through a process of evaluating relevance and quality, a final sample of 30 studies was formed for analysis. The results show that Poland leads in scientific output on this topic. Furthermore, the most commonly used strategies to enhance efficiency, competitiveness, and sustainability include Internet of Things (IoT)-based predictive maintenance, process digitization and automation, data analysis, Lean audit models, artificial intelligence, big data, machine learning, autonomous mobile robots, and multi-criteria decision-making models. The review led to the conclusion that the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies increases operational efficiency by optimizing processes and reducing costs; strengthens competitiveness by improving the quality of products, services, and responsiveness to the market; and promotes sustainability by reducing environmental impact and optimizing supply chain management. Consequently, digital transformation is a key factor for organizations to consolidate competitive advantages in local and international markets. Finally, the study highlights the need to strengthen the implementation of technological tools, training processes, and management methodologies that facilitate the adoption of Industry 4.0 principles and promote sustainable organizational development.

How to Cite
Morelos-Gómez, J., Amaris Alvarado, J., & Alonso Cardona, D. (2026). Efficiency, competitiveness and sustainability in industry 4.0: an organizational transformation approach. Global Knowledge, 11(S1 Especia), 296-323. https://doi.org/10.70165/cglobal.v11iS1.692
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