Logforum | 2026
Authors: Francischini P.R.; Luiz J.V.R.; Justiniano A.V.D.S.
DOI: 10.17270/J.LOG.001394
Journal: Logforum
Year: 2026
Publisher: Poznan School of Logistics
Document Type: Article
Open Access: All Open Access; Gold Open Access
Cited by: 0
Background: The Industry 4.0 (I4.0) paradigm is fundamentally reshaping managerial environments, positioning Project Management (PM) as a key discipline for harnessing these technologies to enhance performance. However, the academic literature on the synergy between I4.0 and PM remains fragmented, leaving a gap in understanding how I4.0 technologies integrate with PMBOK® Guide processes. Methods: This study employed a mixed-methods design, beginning with a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) conducted in January 2024 using the Scopus and Web of Science databases. Structured search strings combining "Project Management" and "Industry 4.0" yielded a final sample of 25 articles. Subsequently, four PM experts from diverse sectors were interviewed using a semi-structured format. Their textual responses were analyzed using Correspondence Factor Analysis (CFA) through IRaMuTeQ software to identify discursive patterns. Results: The SLR identified Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cloud Computing as prominent technologies across PMBOK® knowledge areas, with AI showing particular relevance to the domain of "Uncertainty." In contrast, Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) and the Project Closing process group received comparatively limited attention in the literature. The qualitative findings indicate that, although experts recognize the disruptive potential of AI and Big Data Analytics, they report few mature or systematically implemented applications for conventional scope, schedule, and cost management. In practice, they continue to rely primarily on established tools like MS Project. The triangulation of quantitative and qualitative findings thus reveals a substantial gap between theoretical promise and practical adoption, largely attributable to cost constraints, perceived risks, training demands, and organizational resistance. Conclusions: This study demonstrates a clear disparity between the extensive theoretical exploration of I4.0 technologies and their effective integration into central PMBOK® processes. To advance digital transformation in PM, future research should prioritize systemic integration frameworks and empirically grounded applications. Developing applied case studies and practitioner-oriented guidelines is essential to translate theoretical insights into operational value and to mitigate barriers to adoption. © Wyższa Szkoła Logistyki, Poznań, Polska.
agile management; digital technologies; industry 4.0; PMBOK; project management; project managers