Josu Takala, Juha Leskinen, Henry Sivusuo, Jarkko Hirvelä and Tauno Kekäle
Researchers are keenly searching methods of analyzing, developing and implementing multi‐focused strategies. This is a challenging task because they are quite difficult to…
Abstract
Purpose
Researchers are keenly searching methods of analyzing, developing and implementing multi‐focused strategies. This is a challenging task because they are quite difficult to structure and, therefore, to assimilate. This study aims to present a new method that can be used further to assist decision‐makers in analyzing, evaluating and structuring strategies.
Design/methodology/approach
In this constructive case study, an illustrative sand cone model of the different levels and their relative importance ratings is developed using the AHP method. In total, 21 experts in strategies and tactics were involved in the three‐stage model development process.
Findings
With the help of this visualization model, implementation of a multi‐focused strategy in the case study organization was found to have a better fit for strategic decision making.
Originality/value
This is a unique research paper.
Details
Keywords
Josu Takala, Jarkko Hirvelä, Yang Liu and Dušan Malindžák
The purpose of this paper is to study multifocused global manufacturing strategies under the influence of “China effect” taking the dynamic, complex and situational business…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to study multifocused global manufacturing strategies under the influence of “China effect” taking the dynamic, complex and situational business strategies into account.
Design/methodology/approach
This study compares the competitive priorities of manufacturing strategies in four different types of companies with some international comparisons and one longitudinal case study for benchmarking. The analytical hierarchy process method also made it possible to compare inconsistencies in the answers between the companies.
Findings
As a result of these case studies, it is possible to understand the competitive priorities of manufacturing strategies for the case companies, to show the other companies the route for developments.
Practical implications
All four types of companies should grow internationally and utilize the developing countries as a means of lowering costs. Each type of company has its own special strategies to suit their markets. Companies in Western countries should utilize multifocused manufacturing strategies based on their business strategy in a holistic way, e.g. through responsiveness, agility and leanness concept, and to specialize through quality, e.g. by differentiating product and service technology for global high dynamic and complex business. Global sourcing in purchasing shall also be more and more used effectively for cost and productivity competitiveness.
Originality/value
The development steps, from technology specialist to problem solver, are proposed in this paper. Human resources have to be trained to be more “dynamic engineers,” all the time more also in industrial engineering and management.