RAISE 4.0: A Readiness Assessment Instrument Aimed at Raising SMEs to Industry 4.0 Starting Levels – an Empirical Field Study

In the past few years a considerable number of maturity models were introduced to guide companies towards Industry 4.0. However, a disconnection between them and self-assessment tools is observed as well as the need of tailored instruments for SMEs, specially addressing their actual starting point. We introduce a tool to assess the readiness of SMEs, focusing on the definition of a ‘Level 0’. This is essential to identify the first actions that could bridge the gap between their reality and first stages of I4.0 extended frameworks. Our tool proposes a holistic analysis and is precise and clear, not requiring external guidance. It is the result of an extensive literature survey and insights gained after the development of a Pilot Project carried out with four SMEs to help them start their Digital Transformation Process. RAISE 4.0 was tried in a field study involving 103 companies and experts from 7 Universities in ‘Awareness Workshops’ held countrywide during the ‘SMEs Digital Transformation Program’. It facilitated the selection of those companies better fit to enter the program. Our research serves the double purpose of providing useful information to SMEs regarding their maturity status and next steps and of providing valuable data for scientific analysis.