Human-Centric Smart Factory Transformation: A Roadmap Integrating Lean, Digitalization, and Organizational Learning

While smart manufacturing initiatives increasingly emphasise technological innovation, the role of people, leadership, and culture remains underrepresented. This study examines how manufacturing organisations can design and implement a human-centric roadmap for smart factory transformation that integrates Lean principles, digital maturity, and organisational learning. Employing an intervention-based action research methodology within a global medical device manufacturer, the research combines insights from internal interviews and a panel of manufacturing experts. The findings highlight persistent socio-cultural barriers, including mistrust, siloed communication, and resistance to change, as well as enablers such as servant leadership, A3-based problem-solving, and continuous learning systems. These insights are synthesised into a practical transformation roadmap that aligns organisational maturity with digital readiness. The paper offers two primary contributions: (1) a novel, human-centred model for smart factory development and (2) actionable guidance for manufacturing leaders seeking to embed cultural and leadership practices into their digital strategies. Implications include rethinking transformation programs as socio-technical journeys, where empowering people becomes a prerequisite for sustainable digital change.