DIKWP Framework: Intelligentization, Green Innovation, and Servitization for Manufacturing Sustainability in Circular Economy

Smart manufacturing and green manufacturing are key drivers of sustainability in the circular economy, promoting manufacturers to adopt intelligentization, green innovation, and servitization strategies. However, their combined effects on sustainability remain unexplored. This study proposes a data-information-knowledge-wisdom-practice (DIKWP) framework to clarify the combined effects. By analyzing 904 questionnaires from China’s manufacturing sector, this study explores how these strategies collectively enhance manufacturing sustainability. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) reveals that intelligentization’s indirect impacts on sustainability, through the mediating effects of green innovation and servitization, are more significant than its direct impact. The findings also illustrate the chain mediating effect of green innovation and servitization between intelligentization and sustainability, consistent with the cyclical loop from data to practice within the DIKWP framework. A case study of Wensli’s artificial intelligence generated content (“AIGC+”) practice further illustrates the practical application of the DIKWP framework. This study integrates the practice perspective and knowledge management into the DIKWP framework, promoting practical application to enhance manufacturing sustainability. Empirical evidence from the PLS-SEM analysis, and the real-world case study, provide actionable insights for advancing sustainability practices in the circular economy.