Purpose: This paper aims to propose a practical strategy for smart factories and a step-by-step quality strategy according to the maturity of smart factory construction.
Methods: The characteristics, compositional requirements, and diagnosis system are examined for smart factories through theoretical considerations. Several cases of implementing smart factory are studied considering the company maturity level from the aspect of the smartness concept. And specific quality techniques and innovation activities are carefully reviewed.
Results: The maturity level of smart factory was classified into five phases: 1) ICT non-application, 2) basic, 3) intermediate 1, 4) intermediate 2, 5) advanced level. A five-step quality strategy was established on the basis of case studies; identify, measure, analyze, optimize, and customize. Some quality techniques are introduced for step-by-step implementation of quality strategies.
Conclusion: To build a successful smart factory, it is necessary to establish a quality strategy that suits the culture and size of the company. The quality management strategy proposed in this paper is expected to contribute to the establishment of appropriate strategies for the size and purpose of the company.