BEYOND TECHNOLOGY: LEADERSHIP, SKILLS AND ECOSYSTEM CHALLENGES IN ROMANIA’S TRANSITION TO INDUSTRY 5.0

Octavia Florina LUNG, Florin LUNGU

Abstract


As global industry moves toward the human-centered paradigm of Industry 5.0, understanding how national manufacturing systems adapt has become a key research priority. This paper presents an empirical, cross-sectional study exploring the digital readiness and human-centered capabilities of Romanian manufacturing firms. A five-part questionnaire was administered to 22 operational and strategic leaders from firms of varying size and structure. The instrument explored organizational readiness in five areas: digital maturity, AI investment intentions, resource adequacy, perceived benefits and barriers to automation, and key competencies for sustainable transformation. The findings reveal limited familiarity with Industry 5.0 principles and uneven progress in digital integration, especially among SMEs. While AI is broadly recognized for its operational efficiency and informed decision-making, barriers such as lack of expertise, high implementation costs, and cultural resistance persist. Participants highlighted the importance of leadership, collaboration, and adaptability as essential complements to technical knowledge. This study supports the need for integrated strategies that align people, processes, and technology to support Romania’s transition to Industry 5.0. These insights can contribute to policy formulation, workforce development, and strategic planning across emerging industrial contexts.


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References


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