Through digital interconnection along the value chain, the concept of Industry 4.0 aims to generate data transparency that results in the generation of Big Data. To approach the expected potentials, several barriers exist in the context of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs). On the one hand, large enterprises are much better prepared to profit from the value of big data in comparison to SMEs, which are often suppliers in global value chains and do not have contact to end customers. Further, the data generation within SMEs is often too small and unstandardized in order to generate sufficient input for Big Data. On the other hand, large enterprises require their suppliers, often SMEs, to share their data so that Big Data can be generated in the first place. This paper builds on a literature review on extant research in the field of Industry 4.0, Big Data, and SMEs, and describes insights from an industrial case study. Condensing the findings of literature review and case study, the paper shows approaches how SMEs can be integrated within the concept of Industry 4.0, providing benefits for both, SMEs, and their often larger customers. Thereupon, implications for future research and managerial practice are derived
