Date of Award
12-1-2025
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Quality Engineering and Management
First Advisor
Dunston, Julie
Abstract
The emergence of Industry 4.0 has revolutionized quality management, introducing Quality 4.0 as a framework that integrates digital technologies with established quality principles. Despite its potential to enhance operational efficiency and decision-making, many organizations face challenges in adopting Quality 4.0, including skill gaps, resource constraints, and cultural resistance. This qualitative study explores industry practices, barriers, and enablers of Quality 4.0 implementation through surveys and interviews with quality professionals in southern Illinois manufacturing companies. Using a phenomenological approach, five major themes emerged: employee skillset, training, technology integration, quality tools, and supply chain management. Findings reveal that successful adoption depends on workforce readiness, leadership engagement, and strategic use of digital tools such as AI, machine learning, and data analytics. Based on these insights and a comprehensive literature review, the study proposes a practical framework for implementing Quality 4.0, emphasizing continuous improvement, cultural alignment, and digital transformation. The research contributes actionable guidance for organizations seeking to modernize quality systems and highlights future directions.
Access
This thesis is Open Access and may be downloaded by anyone.