
Industry 4.0
We are experiencing a new industrial revolution, but you know what is Industry 4.0?
“Industry 4.0” is a term that describes the fourth industrial revolution, marked by the centralization of digital, physical and biological technologies that aim to transform manufacturing and production processes.
This revolution represents a significant change in the way companies operate and produce goods.
When thinking about this new revolution, we can understand that factories and industrial operations are becoming highly automated, interconnected and data-driven.
Pillars of Industry 4.0
Next, we will identify which are the pillars of Industry 4.0, that is, what are the main technologies and characteristics of this revolution:
IoT (Internet of Things)
IoT connects devices and sensors to the internet. The objective is to collect data in real time and thus monitor and control machines and processes remotely.
Cloud computing
This technology can be considered a central technology in Industry 4.0.
Cloud computing involves storing and processing data on remote servers, accessible via the internet.
This technology allows for unparalleled scalability and flexibility, as companies can access resources according to their demands.
Additionally, cloud computing facilitates real-time data sharing and analysis, which helps drive collaboration and improves operational efficiency.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
These two technologies automate tasks, predict possible system failures and improve efficiency through machine learning.
Big Data and Advanced Analytics
Through these technologies, large volumes of data can be collected and analyzed to obtain insights, identify trends and help managers make more informed decisions.
Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality
AR (Augmented Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality) technologies provide real-time information or interactive virtual environments. This makes it possible to improve maintenance and training.
Advanced Cybersecurity
With more connectivity, the security of industrial systems becomes increasingly crucial. This technology protects critical systems against cyber threats, ensuring greater security for the operations of work carried out in the Industry 4.0.
3D printing
This innovative printing creates objects layer by layer. This allows you to make prototypes quickly, as well as customize products.
Additive Manufacturing
This innovative technique includes 3D printing.
By creating objects layer by layer, you can produce more complex and customized parts efficiently, saving time and resources.
Advanced Robotics
When thinking about robots that can be autonomous and perform complex tasks without needing human intervention, it is possible to say that Advanced Robotics plays a crucial role in automating Industry 4.0.
Intelligent Supply Chain Management
Smart supply chain management is a tool that uses real-time data to optimize inventory, logistics and delivery operations.
This management helps companies react instantly to changes in demand, which reduces costs and improves the overall efficiency of the supply chain.
Benefits of Industry 4.0
This new revolution brings a series of significant benefits to companies and the economy in general. This includes not only advanced automation, but also increased operational efficiency, reduced production costs, more flexibility in manufacturing, improved product quality, greater supply chain management, more informed decision-making based on data in real-time and the ability to meet personalized customer demands.
And it goes further, the Industry 4.0 it drives innovation and global competitiveness, which promotes more sustainable economic growth and opens doors to new business opportunities and creates job possibilities.
Difficulties of Industry 4.0 in Brazil
When thinking about the development of Industry 4.0 in Brazil, we encounter challenges that range from investments in technology to the adaptation of new processes.
Therefore, few companies are prepared to face so many changes at once, which should generate a gradual transition, with each company adapting according to its needs, capabilities and strategies.
The job market for Industry 4.0
As Industry 4.0 advances, the job market is undergoing significant transformations, just as it has been in other eras of the industry.
Among the main changes, we can highlight:
Automation of repetitive tasks
Many manual and repetitive tasks will be automated by robots and autonomous systems. With this, we can say that some positions will move from mechanical tasks to more strategic tasks.
Greater demand for digital skills
The need for digital skills such as programming, cybersecurity and data analysis is increasing. As a result, professionals with knowledge of technology are in greater demand.
Evolution of functions
With the evolution of Industry 4.0, traditional roles such as machine operators can evolve into automated system operators, which requires different skills.
Data management
Furthermore, managing and analyzing large volumes of data becomes crucial. In other words, data analysts and data scientists begin to play essential roles within companies.

Alessandra Rech Tortelli is CEO of Conex Negócios, graduated in Administration and has an MBA in Retail Management, Franchise Management and Omnichannel Retail. She worked as an internal consultant and manager of large companies, such as: Tintas Renner, Arezzo, Portobello Shop, Mormaii, Confecções Brandili, etc., in 2010 she founded Conex Negócios, a consultancy company focused on Structuring and Expansion of Companies, she is also a speaker, teacher and creator of the startup ConexHub. Alessandra loves challenges and being connected with entrepreneurs, promoting exchanges, experiences and knowledge. She believes that we are all interconnected, that the challenge of one is the challenge of all!