The main aim of the SEE4.0 Project is to strengthen the key competences (required by Industry 4.0) of SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) owners and managers.

Industry 4.0 is a term for the next revolution in industrial production involving comprehensive networking and computerisation of all areas of production. The so called full-circle of Industry 4.0 is composed of Internet of things, Additive Manufacturing, Systems Integration, Big Data, Augmented Reality, Cyber Security, Simulation, Autonomous Systems and Cloud Computing. The challenges in implementing all those components are massive, not only for SMEs, but also for large corporations.

Clearly not all technologies are immediately applicable for SMEs, however the technology can be implemented step by step, using good practices and easing financial costs over short time.
Recent developments indicate that the biggest impulse for the popularisation of Industry 4.0 comes from large industries. They have the resources to switch to networked production and the economic benefits for them are already high. The impact of Industry 4.0 increases with every new network partner, so large companies will encourage their SME suppliers to adapt to this trend. For many SMEs, this change might not be optional, either they adapt to the new business reality, or risk losing the market.

The goals of the project will be achieved by developing innovative training materials, used to train and equip this group with Industry 4.0 relevant knowledge, skills and competences. SMEs having owners and managers aware of Industry 4.0 and equipped with necessary skills to implement solutions, that are inevitable in today’s and future business market conditions, will have ability to gain competitiveness.

The project will do it through developing an Introducing Industry 4.0 to SMEs – practical implementation paper, SEE4.0 modular training components and SEE4.0 toolkit with customised learning paths. The content produced by the project will be tailored and adjusted to the needs of learners, be as practical as possible, with several case studies and best practices gathered from the field where SME operate, in contrast to many already available theoretical materials, coming from research organisations or consulting companies, which are not easily applicable for SME.

The primary target group are SME owners, managers at various levels and all personnel delegated to pursuing Industry 4.0 challenges.
Secondary target group are VET trainers, training organizations and identified stakeholders, related to SME-connected structures (e.g. Chambers of Commerce, Clusters, Business Clubs, professional organisations) and Public officials responsible for VET policy-making.