The overall objective of this project was to develop a service innovation strategy to adopt and benefit from Industry 4.0 technologies.

Key facts

    • Plextek is currently engaged in redefining its 'Strategy for Innovation'.
    • Cranfield worked with Plextek to identify Industry 4.0 opportunities in UK manufacturing.
    • The outcomes of this project triggered fruitful discussions and fresh thinking within the company.
  • Funded by Part-funded by the programme which is funded by the European Regional Development Fund

Impact of our research

The project delivered support to Plextek towards the definition and development of complete manufacturing innovation support services, focused on one of Plextek's strategic aims to advance its portfolio of offerings in manufacturing related services in the areas of Industry 4.0 and advanced manufacturing technology.

Why the research was commissioned

Plextek wanted to develop a service innovation strategy to support the manufacturing industry and to help them adopt and benefit from Industry 4.0 technologies. A structured review of Plextek's current and planned capabilities was carried out by Cranfield and mapped against the UK manufacturing sectors needs and priorities.

Why Cranfield?

Cranfield were able to demonstrate that they understood the contribution that a technical consultancy could make to the success of Industry 4.0 within UK manufacturing.