Abstract
The world is changing incredibly fast, moving away from the days of carrying out daily
tasks physically in both personal and professional spheres. The 21st century has
witnessed the emergence of Digital Technologies that are transforming the world
significantly. For dynamic participation to occur globally, there must be continuous
adaptability to adjustments initiated by industry, society and authority.
This research investigates the operations management issues that come with 4IR
integrated Digital Technologies in Company A. The research objective is to investigate
4IR Digital Technologies that affect Organizational Performance in the railway industry,
to investigate the key barriers and drivers regarding implementing 4IR Digital
Technologies in the railway industry and to assess the impact that 4IR Digital
Technologies have on employee empowerment, organisational performance and
challenges of integrating Digital Technology (4IR).
This research used a quantitative method. A survey questionnaire was issued to
respondents employed at Company A in Dunnottar, Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg. Of the
distributed 190 questionnaires, only 179 were returned in a completed state.
Cronbach's alpha and Factor analysis have been applied to confirm the reliability and
validity of the research during the data processing phase. The variables were
subjected to structural equation modelling to examine their relationship.
The findings indicate that the adoption and implementation of 4IR Digital
Technologies, such as Robots, Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things, lead
to significant enhancements in terms of accuracy in the railway industry.
The Auto feeder proved to be the most significant influence on reducing the production
cycle duration, ensuring consistent production, efficiency and quality control.
The Train Tracer was the second most efficient solution in decreasing maintenance
expenses and enhancing train accessibility. It allows train operators to monitor train
movement with greater efficiency, maximise their resources and enhance railway
operations' overall safety and efficiency.