DRWO4.0 National Workshop - Austria

As part of the Danube Region Wood Industry Transformation Model towards Industry 4.0 (DRWO4.0), co-funded by the Interreg Danube Transnational Programme, a national workshop was organised by the Salzburg University of Applied Sciences at the International Wood Fair in Klagenfurt between 28 and 31 August.

The aim of the workshop was to introduce stakeholders to the DRWO4.0 project, its objectives, consortium and expected results, while gathering input and encouraging participation in the development of the Action Plan. The event addressed the challenges and opportunities that Industry 4.0 and digitalisation bring to the forest-based industries.

The results of the workshop revealed that larger companies are ahead in their digital transformation, while smaller companies face obstacles such as limited resources, lack of awareness and weak digital infrastructure. Participants highlighted the potential for improved efficiency and cost savings, but also raised concerns about employee resistance and the complexity of adopting new technologies.

Looking ahead, to provide support to SMEs in particular to overcome these digitalisation challenges, the DRWO4.0 project is encouraged to focus on providing practical solutions and fostering collaboration between stakeholders.