The pros and cons of direct investment are attracting more and more attention in public discussion. In the following article, Dr Pohle, who was not only a highly successful businessman but also an influential and much respected Member of Federal Parliament, examined the possible positive and...

Purpose: Industry 4.0 represents a special challenge for businesses in general and for SMEs in particular. The study at hand will examine companies' awareness, readiness and capability to meet this challenge taking into account the special role of SMEs Design/methodology/approach: The results of...

Industry 4.0 will upgrade Germany's industrial capabilities. With trade flows becoming increasingly internationally interlinked, automation, more flexible processes as well as horizontal and vertical integration are becoming more important features in a modern, competitive production structure....