The role of intelligent manufacturing systems in the implementation of Industry 4.0 by small and medium enterprises in developing countries

Abstract The desire to enhance connectivity and communication while simplifying data used to improve and optimize products and processes has driven many organizations within developed countries to invest heavily in implementing intelligent technologies for manufacturing. These technologies promise to enhance global manufacturing capabilities while sustaining demands by integrating equipment and frameworks in advanced economies for future production systems. On the other hand, many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) within developing countries have shown apprehension and mistrust toward the emerging technologies associated with Industry 4.0. This article provides a comprehensive review of SMEs' readiness within developing countries to implement the novel technologies falling within the Industry 4.0 realm. Such techniques include intelligent manufacturing systems, cyber‐physical systems, and other crucial technological tools for improved connectivity and communication within manufacturing and production systems. Analysis of the literature shows that many SMEs within developing countries are experiencing delays in introducing intelligent manufacturing and digitizing factories due to a lack of knowledge and communication issues. These firms lag in embracing the transformation to equipment and systems that can communicate with future‐oriented technologies and introduce intelligent devices and machines into production processes. This article explores challenges, identifies gaps and suggests the potential solutions to address the readiness of SMEs toward Industry 4.0 in developing countries, through a systematic summary and integrative analysis of the findings from the literature.