Smart Manufacturing Systems and Operational Efficiency: Mediation of Data Integration Capability and Moderation of Digital Maturity

Abstract

The rise of Industry 4.0 has brought smart manufacturing systems (SMS) to the forefront of operational efficiency in manufacturing organizations. This study investigates the impact of SMS on operational efficiency, examining the mediating role of data integration capability (DIC) and the moderating effect of digital maturity. A quantitative survey was conducted among 250 manufacturing professionals, and data were analyzed using PLS-SEM. Findings indicate that SMS adoption significantly enhances operational efficiency, with DIC partially mediating this relationship by enabling effective utilization of integrated data for informed decision-making. Furthermore, digital maturity positively moderates the SMS–operational efficiency link, suggesting that firms with higher digital readiness derive greater benefits from SMS implementation. The study contributes to the literature by integrating technological and organizational factors in explaining operational performance improvements and offers practical guidance for managers to invest in data integration and digital transformation initiatives to maximize the effectiveness of smart manufacturing systems in enhancing efficiency.