A maturity model for the effective digital transformation of laboratories
Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management
ISSN: 1741-038X
Article publication date: 7 July 2022
Issue publication date: 15 May 2023
Abstract
Purpose
This paper presents a maturity model for digital transformation effectiveness in laboratories (labs) with education and research purposes.
Design/methodology/approach
The model was developed using design science research methodology, expert interviews and case studies.
Findings
The model fulfills three practical goals: (1) to establish comparability of the effectiveness of the digital transformation of labs, (2) to provide lab operators from academia and industry with a guide for (further) transformation and (3) to build initial trust among lab users. In addition, the maturity model contributes to the literature on digital lab transformation by capturing, describing, structuring and evaluating relevant dimensions, items and levels. Model strengths and weaknesses, areas for improvement, international applicability and practical and reusable recommendations are presented as well as the added value in assessing lab functionalities and lab sustainability.
Practical implications
Although originally developed as a maturity model driven by lab education, the model is also suitable for the transformation of research labs in manufacturing technology management. Digital labs can efficiently support industry training and research and development activities as well as simulate the development of new processes prior to their implementation.
Originality/value
Especially for these use cases, the authors see application potentials for the use of online labs from an organizational perspective and from the perspective of stakeholders such as industry users and operators with a manufacturing background, who use and develop transformed labs for teaching and research.
Keywords
Citation
Kammerlohr, V., Paradice, D. and Uckelmann, D. (2023), "A maturity model for the effective digital transformation of laboratories", Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, Vol. 34 No. 4, pp. 621-643. https://doi.org/10.1108/JMTM-01-2022-0050
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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