Industry 4.0 Trends
Industry 4.0 stands for the digital networking and automation of modern production processes. At Plattform Industrie 4.0, we bring together key technological trends and promote the exchange of hands-on use cases.
One of the key trends is the Internet of Things (IoT), which enables real-time connectivity between machines and devices, enhancing efficiency through predictive maintenance and process optimization. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are currently experiencing a hype and play a crucial role in many applications, including quality control, predictive maintenance or process optimisation by analysing large amounts of data and autonomously improving production processes. Big data and analytics allow for the identification of patterns and data-driven decision-making. Cyber-physical systems (CPS) seamlessly integrate physical and digital components, enabling precise monitoring and control of industrial processes. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) enhance training, maintenance, and product development by providing immersive and interactive experiences. Automation and robotics, including collaborative robots (cobots), are driving efficiency and flexibility in manufacturing.3D printing is revolutionizing prototyping and small-scale production by enabling fast, cost-effective manufacturing. Edge computing processes data closer to production sites, reducing latency and enhancing data security. Transparent and secure supply chains are supported by data spaces and blockchain technology, while sustainable production methods improve energy efficiency and resource conservation. A human-centered approach ensures greater acceptance and innovation by incorporating digital assistance systems, trustworthy AI, and new work organization models. Finally, the smart factory concept—powered by digital twins—creates a fully connected and automated production environment, increasing both flexibility and productivity.
Why was the Platform founded?
The association Industry 4.0 Austria – The Platform for Intelligent Production was founded in 2015. Key stakeholders from society, politics, business, and science actively contribute to shaping the future of production and work. The goal is to leverage technological advancements and digital innovations (Industry 4.0) to benefit both companies and employees while ensuring a socially responsible transformation. By doing so, the association aims to foster long-term prosperity for all people in Austria.
The platform organizes activities to:
- Drive the dynamic development of the Austrian production sector,
- Promote research, innovation, and skills development,
- Foster a high-quality working environment, and
- Support a strong level of employment.
Founding members are:
- Federal Ministry for Innovation, Mobility and Infrastructure
- Federal Chamber of Labour (BAK)
- Trade Association of the Electrical and Electronics Industry (FEEI)
- Trade Association of the Metal Technology Industry (FMTI)
- Federation of Austrian Industries (IV)
- Production trade union (PRO-GE)
Factsheet 2024 Plattform Industrie 4.0 Österreich
What are the tasks of the organisation
- We connect businesses, policymakers, researchers, social partners, and the media to drive the successful implementation of Industry 4.0.
- We actively support the transformation of production, services, and the world of work by engaging all relevant stakeholders.
- We identify key areas for action, set priorities, and develop targeted proposals for effective measures.
- We develop strategies for key research fields that have a high impact on advancing Industry 4.0.
- We launch initiatives to create synergies between national, regional, and international activities.
- We keep companies, research institutions, policymakers, and the media continuously informed about the latest developments in Industry 4.0.
- We share experiences, ideas, use cases, studies, and analyses.
THE PLATFORM INDUSTRY 4.0 AUSTRIA STANDS FOR
As an alliance of leading companies, research institutions, and representatives of employers and employees, we are committed to helping your organization stay ahead of the curve – or become a frontrunner in technological innovation.
Our collaboration focuses on the synergy between technology and people. We combine hands-on expertise in cutting-edge technologies with practical implementation know-how, foster mutual learning, engage closely with employee representatives, and bridge the gap between research, education, and everyday operations.
Industry 4.0 and the adoption of digital technologies and innovations present societal challenges that can only be effectively addressed through collaborative efforts and the active involvement of all stakeholders. Our platform brings together a broad and diverse spectrum of stakeholders—from employer and employee representatives to non-university research institutions, universities, universities of applied sciences, leading Industry 4.0 companies, the Federal Ministry for Innovation, Mobility and Infrastructure, and more—enabling a uniquely rich and interdisciplinary exchange
Our goal is to contribute to a highly innovative manufacturing industry and create high-quality jobs. We strive to leverage technological developments and digital innovations in the best possible way for companies, employees, and the benefit of society. In doing so, we aim to strengthen competitiveness and enhance Austria’s position as a leading business location.
Management Board
Mag. Thomas Welser
Member of The Group Management Board & CEO, Welser Profile – Vorstandsvorsitzender, „Industrie 4.0 Österreich“
Dr.in Beate El-Chichakli
Leiterin der Abteilung III/1 Grundsatzangelegenheiten: Sektion Innovation und Technologie BMK – Vorstandsvorsitzende Stellvertreterin, „Industrie 4.0 Österreich“
DI Dr. Wilfried Enzenhofer, MBA
Geschäftsführer, Upper Austrian Research GmbH
Dipl.iur. Sabine Hesse, MBA
Geschäftsführerin, Fachverband Metalltechnische Industrie
Univ.Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Dr.techn. Wolfgang Kastner
Vizerektor Digitalisierung und Infrastruktur, TU Wien
Christoph Krammer
Technologiesteuerung Contract Manufacturing, Magna Steyr
Harald Loos
Head of T AT, Siemens AG Österreich
Mag. Isabella Meran-Waldstein
Bereichsleiterin Forschung, Technologie & Innovation, Industriellenvereinigung
Mag. Marion Mitsch
Geschäftsführerin, Fachverband
der Elektro- und Elektronikindustrie
Kerstin Repolusk, MA
Sekretär für Wirtschaft und neue Technologien,
Gewerkschaft PRO-GE
Mag. Tobias Schweitzer
Bereichsleiter Wirtschaft, Arbeiterkammer Wien
Alois Wiesinger
Geschäftsführer Mechatronik/CTO, FILL Gesellschaft m.b.H.
Team
DI Roland Sommer, MBA
Geschäftsführung
T +43 1 588 39 – 74
M +43 664 619 25 70
Mag. Jasmina Schnobrich-Cakelja
Senior Projektmanagerin,
Kommunikation & PR
T +43 1 588 39 – 75
M +43 664 88 348 159
Dr. Verena Halmschlager
Senior Projektmanagerin
M +43 664 88 348 169
Michael Fälbl
Senior Projektmanager
T: +43 1 588 39 – 69
M +43 664 45 847 93
Dipl.-Psych. Jessica Roth
Teamassistentin, Projektmanagement
T: +43 1 588 39 – 29
Mag. Denise Branz
Senior Projektmanagerin
M +43 664 820 56 50
Stefanie Werderits
Projektmanagerin
M +43 664 820 56 53
Members
International Partners
Industry 4.0 is a global topic, making international cooperation—especially within Europe—highly relevant for the platform. We maintain partnerships with similar industry platforms in Germany, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Australia. Additionally, each year, we invite representatives from a selected focus country to our annual conference to highlight potential collaboration opportunities for Austrian industry.
Plattform Industrie 4.0 is actively engaged in various European projects and international initiatives, including the International Manufacturing-X Council.