Stepping into The Future: Understanding Industrial Revolution 4.0

(source: https://qrminstitute.org/how-qrm-boosts-your-industry-4-0-transformation)

Stepping into The Future: Understanding Industrial Revolution 4.0
By KOMINFO

Technology has become the main driver of change in the era of ever-growing globalization, changing business significantly. One of the most prominent phenomena during this journey is the Industrial Revolution 4.0, a wave of digital transformation that unites the digital, physical, and biological worlds. This wave is creating new paradigms, new opportunities, and new challenges in various industries.

In the Industrial Revolution 4.0, there are at least five technologies that are the main pillars in developing a digital-ready industry, namely: Internet of Things, Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing and Additive Manufacturing.

Internet of Things
Internet of Things (IoT) is a system that uses computing devices, mechanical devices and digital machines in a single connection, or related relationships. Thus, this system can carry out its functions without requiring human-computer interaction. Four components comprise an Internet of Things system: sensor devices, connectivity, data processing, and user interface. 

Examples of IoT applications in Indonesia include Gowes (IoT for bicycle sharing), eFishery (IoT that provides automatic fish feed), Qlue (IoT for smart cities), and Hara (IoT for food and agriculture).

Big Data
The term “Big Data” refers to large amounts of structured or unstructured data. However, it is not the amount of data itself that is important, but how organizations use it to make business decisions and strategies. Some big data service providers in Indonesia are Sonar Platform, Paques Platform, Datastore, and Dattabot.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI is computer or machine technology that has human intelligence and can be controlled by humans. The more data an AI receives and analyzes, the better its predictions. Uses of AI include chatbots and facial recognition.

Cloud Computing
Cloud computing, or what is known as cloud computing, is a technology that makes the internet function as a center for managing data and applications. By using cloud computing, computer users can access databases and configure servers via the internet. Hosting a website in the form of a virtual server is an example.

There are three types of service models in the form of cloud computing, namely Cloud Software as a Service (SaaS), Cloud Platform as a Service (PaaS), Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS).

Addictive Manufacturing
By using 3D printing machines, also known as “3D Printing”, additive manufacturing is a new advancement in the manufacturing industry. The digital design image that has been created is modeled into a real object with a shape and size comparable to the original design. Additive manufacturing technology enables more designs and products that cannot be made with conventional manufacturing methods.

Industrial Revolution 4.0 marks a turning point in human history where information, communication and automation technologies reach a point of convergence that changes the way we live, work, and interact. This is not simply an additional technological development, but a revolution that involves the integration of digital technology into almost every aspect of our lives.

The Industrial Revolution 4.0 also has several impacts as follows.

  1. Business Transformation: Companies must adapt quickly to stay relevant amidst these changes. New business models, such as servitization and the platform economy, are emerging because of this digital transformation.
  2. Jobs and Skills: The Industrial Revolution 4.0 has impacted the workforce landscape, changing the types of jobs available and the skills required. Digital skills and adaptability are becoming increasingly important.
  3. Global Connectedness: Technology facilitates greater global connectedness, allowing companies to operate in broader markets and expand their reach.

While the Industrial Revolution 4.0 brings many opportunities, there are also challenges that must be overcome. Questions about data security, privacy, and vulnerability to cyberattacks require serious attention. On the other hand, opportunities for innovation, efficiency and sustainable development are becoming more open.

Industrial Revolution 4.0 is not just about technology, but about how we manage these changes. Understanding the implications, challenges and opportunities offered by this revolution is the first step in moving towards a connected, efficient, and sustainable future. With a proactive attitude and readiness to adapt, we can take steps forward in facing this revolution with confidence and conviction.

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