Chancen und Herausforderungen bei der Implementierung von Paperless Production in der mechanischen Fertigung

Abstract

In the era of digitalization, paper-based data management represents a systemic bottleneck in industrial production processes, as it slows down the flow of information and fails to accurately reflect the current production status. Paperless Production offers central solution approaches to support manufacturing companies in replacing paper-based processes and transitioning to digital, networked alternatives within the context of Industry 4.0. This study is based on an extensive literature review as well as an empirical analysis of a practical use case and aims to highlight the opportunities and challenges of Paperless Production while identifying suitable digital systems and tools for this transformation. Based on the organizational and technological influencing factors of Paperless Production, recommendations for action are to be derived in order to enhance the long-term competitiveness of manufacturing companies. In the theoretical section, Paperless Production is situated as an integral part of digital transformation within the framework of Industry 4.0. Key advantages—such as real-time data availability, improved process and product quality, increased transparency and traceability of production data, and enhanced sustainability—are examined. However, the implementation of Paperless Production is also associated with technological and organizational challenges. Continuous technical system integration with a high degree of automation, alongside the assurance of IT and data security, are technological prerequisites for the realization of Paperless Production. Strong managerial commitment and high user acceptance through user-friendly applications are intended to ensure the successful integration of employees within the organization. Furthermore, interconnected ERP, MES, EDI, and WMS systems, as well as human-machine-interfaces, machine and product tracking tools, and quality control systems, can be identified as essential digital tools and systems for the full implementation of Paperless Production. The empirical part of the study focuses on the practical implementation of the Paperless Production project at the automotive supplier ZF Steyr Präzisionstechnik GmbH. In the context of this use case, specific transformation measures toward Paperless Production are analyzed, including the implementation of digital work instructions, the use of mobile devices for information provision on the shop floor, and the processing and analysis of newly generated production data. Thus, in alignment with the findings of the literature review, increased process transparency and efficiency as well as cost reduction could be identified as key benefits in the empirical analysis

Date of Award	2025
Original language	German (Austria)
Supervisor	Klaus Altendorfer (Supervisor)