Method to support the selection of localization technologies for Industry 4.0 Development and application of a methodology to evaluate which technology is best suited for the individual requirements of localization use cases for Industry 4.0.

The digital revolution, characterized by the emergence of Industry 4.0, has triggered a paradigmatic transformation across technological, economic, and societal domains, creating a symbiotic ecosystem of intelligent machines, products, and workflows. Localization technologies are an enabler for realizing this transformation, improving operational efficiency, driving product innovation, and optimizing process workflows. This paper highlights the critical role of these technologies in ensuring accurate, real-time location data, which in turn optimizes resource utilization, minimizes downtime, and initiates a shift toward resilient and efficient manufacturing. However, the diverse and rapidly evolving nature of location technologies presents a confusing landscape with an increasing number of options, each with unique capabilities and application-specific nuances. This complexity poses significant challenges for organizations and requires a structured approach to technology selection. To address this need, the paper presents a multi-criteria-based evaluation methodology that includes technical specifications, environmental adaptability, cost-effectiveness, and scalability tailored to the heterogeneous requirements of Industry 4.0 applications. The methodology is validated through its application in the 5G4Automation research project, illustrating its utility in streamlining the selection process and mitigating the subjectivity inherent in technology selection.