Roadmapping Research and Development Initiatives in Digital Transformation of Industrial and Manufacturing Operations

Featured Application: This article presents a framework integrating the European Technology Readiness Level (TRL) scale with the Industry 4.0 Maturity Index (MI) to guide digital transformation in manufacturing. This tool helps companies evaluate and plan technology integration, ensuring alignment with their specific needs and resources. Companies underestimate the cost of digitalization when introducing new technologies and practices in existing work environments. Although the technologies are well developed and on the market for many decades, their application and integration into companies’ operations require the necessary time and workforce skills set to be successfully implemented. The present study proposes a framework that integrates the European Technology Readiness Level (TRL) scale with the Industry 4.0 Maturity Index (MI). The authors suggest a two-dimensional map that incorporates both technologies and the Industry 4.0 maturity level. This tool aids in evaluating alternative scenarios based on internal expertise and available resources.