Position paper on realizing smart products: challenges for Semantic Web technologies

In the rapidly developing space of novel technologies that combine sensing and semantic technologies, research on smart products has the potential of establishing a research field in itself. In this paper, we synthesize existing work in this area in order to define and characterize smart products. We then reflect on a set of challenges that semantic technologies are likely to face in this domain. Finally, in order to initiate discussion in the workshop, we sketch an initial comparison of smart products and semantic sensor networks from the perspective of knowledge technologies

Past, present and future of information and knowledge sharing in the construction industry: Towards semantic service-based e-construction

The paper reviews product data technology initiatives in the construction sector and provides a synthesis of related ICT industry needs. A comparison between (a) the data centric characteristics of Product Data Technology (PDT) and (b) ontology with a focus on semantics, is given, highlighting the pros and cons of each approach. The paper advocates the migration from data-centric application integration to ontology-based business process support, and proposes inter-enterprise collaboration architectures and frameworks based on semantic services, underpinned by ontology-based knowledge structures. The paper discusses the main reasons behind the low industry take up of product data technology, and proposes a preliminary roadmap for the wide industry diffusion of the proposed approach. In this respect, the paper stresses the value of adopting alliance-based modes of operation

THE RISE OF AI IN CONTENT MANAGEMENT: REIMAGINING INTELLIGENT WORKFLOWS

As content management systems (CMS) become indispensable for managing digital experiences, AI integration promises to bring new levels of automation and intelligence to streamline workflows. This paper surveys how AI techniques like machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and knowledge graphs are transforming CMS capabilities across the content lifecycle. We analyze key use cases like automated metadata tagging, natural language generation, smart recommendations, predictive search, personalized experiences, and conversational interfaces. The benefits include enhanced content discoverability, accelerated creation, improved optimization, simplified governance, and amplified team productivity. However, adoption remains low due to challenges like opaque AI, poor workflow integration, unrealistic expectations, bias risks, and skills gaps. Strategic priorities include starting with focused pilots, evaluating multiple AI approaches, emphasizing transparent and fair AI models, and upskilling teams. Benefits are maximized through hybrid human-AI collaboration vs full automation. While AI integration is maturing, the outlook is cautiously optimistic. Leading CMS platforms are accelerating development of no-code AI tools. But mainstream adoption may take 2-5 years as skills and best practices evolve around transparent and ethical AI. Wise data practices, change management, and participatory design will be key. If implemented thoughtfully, AI can reimagine workflows by expanding human creativity, not replacing it. The future points to creative synergies between empowered users and AI assistants. But pragmatic pilots, continuous improvement, and participatory strategies are necessary to navigate the hype and deliver value. The promise warrants measured experimentation

Integrating Construction 4.0 Technologies: A Four-Layer Implementation Plan

This research explores the current state of Construction 4.0 and discusses a four-layer implementation of Construction 4.0 in the industry. The research methodology consists of an extensive literature review to gain insights about Construction 4.0 and frame the four-layer implementation plan. A case study is also presented to showcase the proposed implementation plan. Nine Construction 4.0 technologies were discussed, their integration throughout the project lifecycle was presented in a roadmap, their integration and connectivity with one another were outlined in an interaction roadmap, and the requirements necessary for achieving the 4.0 transformation were articulated. However, the proposed implementation plan is focused on nine Construction 4.0 technologies. The research presents a comprehensive plan for integrating Construction 4.0 technologies into the industry and serves as a guideline to help construction companies better understand the implications of Construction 4.0

Industry 4.0 Impact on Evolution of Product Development: The Bicycle Saddle Case Study

The emerging new technologies, the rapid change of market demand, and the influence of society moved the companies to be innovative and to improve their product as continuously as effectively. Therefore, the need for smart manufacturing systems and smart products arises to allow the manufacturer satisfying current customer needs, within a context of highly competitive market. The Industry 4.0 initiative provides a base toward the smart manufacturing, aimed at producing the smart and highly connected product. This study analyzes the role of Industry 4.0 technologies in the product development process. Particularly, it investigates how the whole life cycle of product is conceived, to comply with the Industry 4.0 main features. The paper focuses upon a customized bike saddle, assumed as a case study. The saddle comfort depends on many factors, including the rider anatomy. Therefore, it raises the necessity of profound customization to satisfy the user needs. Artificial intelligence techniques, such as data mining for market research, deep learning for customized design, and additive manufacturing technologies, as the stereolithography for 3D printing, concur all to enable the implementation of the Industry 4.0 paradigm, and to innovate significantly the product

Digital transition, Sustainable Product-Service System (S.PSS), and environmental sustainability - A systematic review

Recently, the ongoing digital transition has brought forth both new risks and opportunities for environmental sustainability. However, despite some attention given to potential relationships between related areas and a growing research interest therein, a limited number of studies have holistically explored the nexus between digital transition, PSS, and environmental benefits. This research is a systematic literature review focused on the relationship between S.PSS and environmental sustainability during the digital transition process. We propose a novel analytical perspective by synthesizing and mapping the existing literature to derive a potential pathway for digital technologies to optimize four S.PSS relevant factors through four primary approaches (Information/Data Access Optimization, Connectivity & Communication Optimization, Process Optimization, Systemic Optimization ), leading to environmental benefits across six dimensions (Product lifetime extension, Intensive use of Product, efficiency of resources, resources’ renewability, Material life extension and Pollution reduction), and outlining current shortcomings and suggested future research directions. This study identifies broad consensus on the potential significance of digital transition in contributing to the environmental benefits of the product design for environmental sustainability (i.e. Life Cycle Design), but reveals a scarcity of research focusing on other aspects of S.PSS (e.g. service and business model innovation) and environmental benefits (e.g. resource renewability), which need further investigation. This study assists researchers in comprehending the potential environmental impacts of digital technologies when applied to S.PSS, identifying future research priorities to inspire designers to revaluate the new role and competence of S.PSS in promoting sustainable transition in the digital era