Digitalization and High-End Manufacturing in Made in Italy Districts. Integrating Design Experiences in 5.0 Supply Chain

The "Made in Italy" brand exemplifies a harmonious fusion of innovation and tradition within its manufacturing clusters. Support from European initiatives aimed at digitalization has facilitated strategic entry into international markets, thereby enhancing competitiveness. The emergence of Industry 5.0 serves as a framework for optimizing operational efficiency while preserving intrinsic values, enabling manufacturers to adapt to changing consumer demands. Industry 5.0 emphasizes the synergy between advanced technologies and human creativity, prioritizing sustainable practices and personalized production. The furniture sector represents a compelling case study within this context. It is characterized by clusters of small and medium-sized enterprises, often family-run and semi-industrial in nature. These companies combine artisanal knowledge with industrial processes and have embraced digitalization through the development of digital archives for artefacts and component assemblies integrated within Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems. Central to this evolution is the development of Product Service Systems (PSS), which integrate digital technologies into product configuration and customization processes. These strategies not only enhance tailored consumer experiences but also strengthen brand loyalty. Additionally, innovative product display systems and storytelling techniques, leveraging virtual support driven by digital processes, engage consumers more effectively. This multifaceted approach illustrates how traditional craftsmanship can evolve through technological advancements, ensuring the sustainability and global relevance of the Made in Italy identity. This strategy involves creating interactive systems that foster screen-based interactions in information dissemination and customization processes. It also addresses immersive product display systems, utilizing new concepts in exhibition design both in situ, such as at trade fairs or exhibitions, and through novel digital platforms that develop interactive, multimodal virtual environments. The research presents several case studies that illustrate the application of this approach in the furniture design sector. It examines PSS strategies and immersive spaces designed to convey technical and emotional information about products.