Title: Navigating Industry 4.0 barriers: a neutrosophic MCDM approach with impact analysis and mitigation strategies

Authors: Vikrant Sharma

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, School of Engineering and Technology, Mody University of Science and Technology, Lakshmangarh, Rajasthan, India

Abstract: The global manufacturing landscape is being reshaped with advanced digitalisation leading to the term Industry 4.0. Despite this, it faces serious challenges when adopted in emerging economies. This study addresses these challenges through identification and prioritisation of the most important barriers and the formulation of tailored mitigation strategies. The research uses a comprehensive methodology of survey data collection and uses the neutrosophic analytical hierarchy process (N-AHP) and neutrosophic combined compromise solution (N-CoCoSo) MCDM analysis to shed light on the critical barriers. The findings emphasise workforce training, strategic financial planning, change management programs, integration strategies and strong cybersecurity. This work is unique in its use of an empirical approach, and provides a framework to companies and public policymakers in order for them to overcome adoption barriers by a structured roadmap for adopting technologies. The outcomes support competitive advantage and sustainable development by helping to guide wise resource allocation and decision-making.

Keywords: Industry 4.0; challenges; neutrosophic MCDM; impact analysis; mitigation strategies.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMDM.2026.154609

International Journal of Management and Decision Making, 2026 Vol.25 No.4, pp.360 - 389

Received: 26 Jul 2025
Accepted: 30 Dec 2025
Published online: 07 Jul 2026 *

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