Knowledge Management Models for the Smart Factory: A Comparative Analysis of Current Approaches

This paper analyses current and well-known knowledge management models regarding their applicability to smart factories and the Industry 4.0. In form of a literature study, we surveyed the specific challenges and requirements that smart factories and the ongoing digital transition in the industrial sector introduce to knowledge management systems and models. In the second part, we then expound the extent to which those requirements are supported by well-established knowledge management models in form of a comparative analysis. A central result of this work is that an Industry 4.0 compliant knowledge management needs to incorporate aspects that emphasize human-machine and machine-machine interaction together with data protection and privacy concerns, besides other well-researched and established aspects.