Στρατηγικές ψηφιακού μετασχηματισμού στην εποχή του Industry 4.0 : η χρήση μεθοδολογιών Agile

Χριστοφόρου, Νικόλαος

Master Thesis

Author

Χριστοφόρου, Νικόλαος

Date

2025-11-03

Abstract

This thesis examines the role of technology and digital transformation in firms, focusing on large organizations’ transition to Agile methodologies. It reviews the concept and types of digital transformation (customer experience, business process, business model), its impacts and maturity, and key challenges (change resistance, skill gaps, automation risks). It also presents emerging technologies (AI, IoT, blockchain, VR/AR) and the Industry 4.0 context. Methodology: a qualitative approach using comparative analysis of three industrial case studies: (1) bauxite type recognition system (AI + IoT; Waterfall implementation), (2) Data Management System (central data repository; hybrid approach), and (3) entrapped-soda prediction model (ML; Agile implementation). Pettigrew’s framework (content–process–context–time) guided the change analysis. Data were collected via interviews, corporate documents and participant observation. Key findings: - Digital transformation improves operational efficiency, product quality and enables new business models. - Implementation methodology must match the project nature: hardware/OT- heavy projects favor initial Waterfall phases; data/ML projects benefit from Agile iterations; hybrid approaches suit complex initiatives. - Critical success factors: end‐user involvement, continuous training/upskilling, executive sponsorship and robust data management (governance, unified repository). - Agile methods deliver faster value and lower risk in uncertain, data-driven projects (short sprints, continuous feedback, UAT). - Main risks: scope changes, procurement/installation delays, lack of digital skills, security concerns and digital exclusion. Conclusion: Technology and Agile practices are essential for competitiveness in Industry 4.0, but successful adoption requires strategic planning, selecting the right methodology per project, investing in people, and strong data and risk management.

Postgraduate Studies Programme

Πρόγραμμα Μεταπτυχιακών Σπουδών στη Διοίκηση Επιχειρήσεων για Στελέχη (Executive MBA)

Department

Σχολή Οικονομικών, Επιχειρηματικών και Διεθνών Σπουδών. Τμήμα Οργάνωσης και Διοίκησης Επιχειρήσεων

Number of pages

Language

Greek

URI

https://dione.lib.unipi.gr/xmlui/handle/unipi/18615

Collections

Τμήμα Οργάνωσης και Διοίκησης Επιχειρήσεων

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Except where otherwise noted, this item's license is described as
Αναφορά Δημιουργού-Μη Εμπορική Χρήση-Όχι Παράγωγα Έργα 3.0 Ελλάδα