Industry 4.0 evolutionary framework: The increasing need to include the human factor

Since 2011, when it appeared as a concept, "Industry 4.0" has been expanding worldwide, impacting many organizations' productivity, performance, and supply chain, especially in developed economies. Prior research has focused mainly on conceptualization, modeling, and technological and operative improvements in the supply chain. Based on a systematic literature review and considering the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic as a major milestone in the global industry, this study proposes a new framework for the analysis of Industry 4.0's evolution, which is divided into three phases: (a) from the beginnings through 2011, (b) Industry 4.0 Process Development: 2012-2019, and (c) the human factor challenge after the COVID-19. In this last phase, the human factor is equally essential as technology selection and change management. To achieve long-term business success, the implementation of Industry 4.0 must consider human aspects, such as middle management leadership, the challenges of empowering operators 4.0, and workers' well-being. Finally, Industry 4.0 could foster a more sustainable, inclusive, and diverse business.