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The manufacturing industry is competitive and is constantly striving to improve OEE. In the transition to smart production, digital technologies such as IIoT are highlighted as important. IIoT platforms enable real-time monitoring. In this sense, digital technologies such as IIoT are expected to improve OEE by enabling the analysis of real-time data and production availability. 

A qualitative study with an abductive approach has been conducted. The empirical material has been collected through a case study of a heavy-duty vehicle industry and the theoretical framework is based on a literature study. Lastly, a thematic analysis has been used for the derivation of appropriate themes for analysis.

The study concluded that challenges and enablers related to the implementation of IIoT to improve OEE can be divided into technical and cultural factors. Technical challenges and enablers mainly consider the achievement of interoperability, compatibility, and cyber security, while cultural factors revolve around digital acceptance, competence, encouragement of digital curiosity, and creating knowledge and understanding towards OEE. Lastly, conclusions can be drawn that implementation of IIoT has a positive effect on OEE since it ensures consistent and accurate data, which lies a solid foundation for production decisions. Also, digitalization of production enhances lean practices which are considered a key element for improving OEE.