Integrating Ambidexterity into the Modern Manufacturing Era of Industry 4.0
Elfindah Princes
Abstract
Ambidexterity has caught attention since the first time it was introduced by March. It is believed to be the answer to competitive advantages under uncertainties. Manufacturing companies are among those who try to implement ambidexterity but with no satisfactory result. Confusion and debates on Ambidexterity are real. Previous studies have been numerous, but each of them is focused on one context only, leaving the others behind. The digitalization in Industry 4.0 has made it even worse, the companies know that they need to integrate ambidextrous capabilities but so far, the research have provided no complete step-by-step integration process. This paper aims to answer this problem by conducting systematic literature research and qualitative approach. The writer introduces an ambidexterity integration concept with 9 key steps in order to integrate ambidextrous capabilities within the small, medium and big companies with clear deadlines and goals to gain competitive advantages. We must also pay attention to the transition process in integrating ambidexterity in the manufacturing industry which may be different from other industries.