Exploring the strategic implications of Industry 4.0 in the technology services sector: findings from a systematic literature review

Aquiles Nogueira and Guilherme F. Frederico

Journal of Electronic Business & Digital Economics, 2026, vol. 5, issue 1, 43-68

Abstract: PurposeThe objective of this article is to fill the gaps in understanding the impact of the emergence of Industry 4.0 on technology services companies. It discusses the barriers, challenges, innovations and management types that influence the implementation of these advanced technologies in the technology services sector. The article also develops a structured theoretical framework and conducts a systematic review of the literature on the proposed subject.Design/methodology/approachWe started by developing a theoretical approach to guide the analysis; then, we divided the study into three phases: planning, execution and reporting. Using search terms and the inclusion and exclusion criteria, we selected 24 articles from the main academic databases. These articles were reviewed in detail to provide comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities resulting from the implementation of these technologies in the technology services sector, as shown in a framework at the end.FindingsThe study uncovers an interdependent triad driving the implementation of Industry 4.0 in the technology services sector: technological innovation, technology services management and people management. This triad involves the companies' technical capacity to implement advanced technologies, proving to be essential in optimizing operations and developing new business models. The implementation of Industry 4.0 also brings important challenges, such as resistance to change, cost control and interoperability. Conversely, effective technology management involves partners that bring opportunities for value creation and innovation; and cybersecurity can reduce problems, ensuring the safety of companies and customers.Research limitations/implicationsDespite providing valuable insights into the implementation of Industry 4.0 in technology services, this study has some limitations, including the lack of practical research and specific regional perspectives, which may affect the generalization of results. Future research should use varied sources and methods for a deeper understanding of these processes. Also, this research provides a basis for future studies approaching the transition from supply chain 4.0 to supply chain 5.0 in the technology services sector.Practical implicationsInvesting in infrastructure and staff training is essential to support the implementation of advanced technologies, and addressing barriers such as resistance to change and cybersecurity is fundamental. Also, ethical issues should be valued within the organizational culture. These implications help companies meet the challenges and seize the opportunities presented by Industry 4.0.Originality/valueThe study highlights the interdependence between technological innovation, technology services management and people management, which promotes an effective transition to Industry 4.0 in the technology services sector. In addition, it provides valuable insights for researchers and professionals interested in this area.

Keywords: Industry 4.0; Supply chain 4.0; Service 4.0; Systematic literature review; Service innovation; Service technologies (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eme:jebdep:jebde-04-2025-0031

DOI: 10.1108/JEBDE-04-2025-0031

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