Matthias Baldinger, Gideon Levy, Paul Schönsleben and Matthias Wandfluh
To design for additive manufacturing (AM), the decision to use AM needs to be taken early in the product development process. Therefore, engineers need to be able to estimate AM…
Abstract
Purpose
To design for additive manufacturing (AM), the decision to use AM needs to be taken early in the product development process. Therefore, engineers need to be able to estimate AM part cost based on the few parameters available at this point in the process. This paper aims to develop suitable cost estimation models for this purpose, focusing on buy scenarios, as many companies choose to buy parts at service providers.
Design/methodology/approach
This study applies analogical cost estimation techniques to a data set of price quotations for laser sintering and laser melting parts.
Findings
The paper proposes easy-to-apply cost estimation models for laser sintering and laser melting for buy scenarios. Further, it generates new insights on the AM service provider market.
Research limitations/implications
The proposed models are only suitable for buy scenarios and are only a snapshot of cost achievable in 2014.
Practical implications
The proposed cost estimation models enable engineers to approximate AM part costs early in the product development process and thereby ease the decision to rapid manufacture certain parts.
Originality/value
This study addresses two gaps in the AM cost literature. It is the first study to take a qualitative approach to AM cost estimation, which is more suitable early in the product development process than the currently available quantitative studies. Further, it develops the first cost estimation for buy scenarios.
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Olga Willner, Daryl Powell, Markus Gerschberger and Paul Schönsleben
The purpose of this paper is to conceptualize archetypes of engineer-to-order (ETO) to support companies in determining the appropriate degree of design standardization and…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to conceptualize archetypes of engineer-to-order (ETO) to support companies in determining the appropriate degree of design standardization and automation, and as a result achieve superior performance. Products of ETO manufacturers are classified in a 2×2 matrix using annual units sold and engineering complexity as dimensions.
Design/methodology/approach
This research adopted a theory refining approach based on multiple case studies. Seven ETO manufacturers from different industry sectors participated in the study. Data collection was primarily based on a series of in-depth interviews supported by observations and archival sources.
Findings
The paper proposes four distinct archetypes of ETO (complex, basic, repeatable, and non-competitive) and empirically validates three of them. The organizational structures and processes most suitable for the different archetypes are described, and standardization and automation strategies are linked to the quadrants of the matrix. The matrix can support practitioners in making strategic choices and provides a framework for benchmarking their ETO products and processes.
Originality/value
Existing conceptualizations of ETO consider the company as the primary object of investigation, rather than the product or product family. However, companies often have different product families demanding different strategies. Also, there is little or no focus on the engineering perspective. The authors move the engineering perspective to the center of investigation and identify a set of standardization and automation strategies for different types of ETO products.
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Apithamsoonthorn Sompong and Suthiwartnarueput Kamonchanok
Outsourcing is recognized as one of the critical factors for efficient execution of pharmaceutical supply chain management (PSCM), and many pharmaceutical companies engage in…
Abstract
Outsourcing is recognized as one of the critical factors for efficient execution of pharmaceutical supply chain management (PSCM), and many pharmaceutical companies engage in international outsourcing of services (IOS) to survive in global highly competitive business. Since the key success factors for both domestic & international alliances are partnership characteristics and strategic fit management, but there is no empirical research on this issue in Thai pharmaceutical partnership offshore outsourcing. Therefore, this survey of Thai and foreign companies, both contract providers (CPs) and contract manufacturers (CMs), seeks to indicate significant relationships among both outsourcing strategic fit and partnership types, including outsourcing performance outcome. This research is two-fold. First, the partnership types (Type I, II, & III), the strategic fit types (low fit, moderate fit, and good fit), and their correlations are analyzed. And second, their outsourcing performance (company revenues and growth rates) are presented. The results showed that the most of the Thai pharmaceutical outsourcing manufacturing are classified as the partnership Type II, as well as the moderate strategic fit, and strongly support the relationship between the two models. Both of the companies’ revenue and growth rate could predict the companies’ performances outcome for each of partnership and strategic fit types. However, it is not necessary that the most integrative type of partnership, Type III, will be always the best, because it depends also on the strategic fit between each pair of partners as well.
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Sebastian Vaduva, Lance Brouthers, Melisa Benchis and Amalia Cristina Nedelcut
The purpose of this paper is to explore the viability of shifting foreign direct investment (FDI) from China to Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries in light of recent…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore the viability of shifting foreign direct investment (FDI) from China to Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries in light of recent geopolitical and economic challenges. By analyzing case studies, it argues that CEE nations offer a compelling alternative for Western European businesses, with stronger intellectual property protection, political stability and alignment with European Union (EU) sustainability goals. The paper provides insights for firms and policymakers on mitigating risks and enhancing business operations by pivoting toward the CEE region, offering practical recommendations for adapting to shifting global trade dynamics.
Design/methodology/approach
The design methodology uses the case study approach to analyze the shift of FDI from China to CEE. This method examines the geopolitical, economic and legal contexts influencing business decisions, using real-world examples of Western European companies that have made this transition. The case studies highlight key factors in decision-making and the benefits of relocating investments to the CEE region.
Findings
The study identifies several advantages of the CEE region over China for Western European firms. These include geographic proximity, similarities in business values and purposes, environmental accountability, trustworthiness in business, enforceable noncompetition rules, lower risks of counterfeiting, reduced political and administrative risks, lower risks of intellectual property theft and reduced risks of negative publicity.
Practical implications
The findings suggest that Western European firms should consider redirecting their FDI to the CEE region to mitigate risks associated with investing in China. This move could offer long-term benefits despite short-term complications.
Originality/value
This paper contributes to the FDI theoretical framework by enhancing the cultural, administrative, geographic and economic (CAGE) distance framework. It provides a unique perspective on the shifting dynamics between Europe and China and highlights the potential of the CEE region as a viable alternative for FDI.
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Paul Chapman, Michael Bernon and Paul Haggett
This research seeks to identify and apply techniques that can be used in a supply chain context to diagnose the causes of variability in delivery lead time.
Abstract
Purpose
This research seeks to identify and apply techniques that can be used in a supply chain context to diagnose the causes of variability in delivery lead time.
Design/methodology/approach
A literature review was conducted and a number of quality management (QM), techniques were selected as candidates for diagnosing delivery time variability. A case study of the application of these techniques is provided on the UK‐based defence supply chain that supported UK operations in the Iraq war of 2003.
Findings
Candidate QM techniques for diagnosing delivery time variability were identified, namely: Process Chart; Histogram; Failure Mode and Effect Analysis; and Cause and Effect Analysis. These techniques were successful in enabling the diagnosis of the causes of delivery time variability in the context of the case study investigated.
Practical implications
The work illustrates how QM techniques can be employed to address issues with supply chains, not least with regard to the important problem of variability in delivery leadtime. In practice, this highlights benefits that result to practitioners in order to improve the performance of operations in a dynamic setting, such as the defence supply chain studied here.
Originality/value
This work has value in presenting the findings of an in‐depth case study on the application of QM techniques in a multi‐echelon supply chain setting. It is also original in employing the FMEA technique together with an end‐customer perspective to assess the effect of failure modes in operations across a supply chain. FMEA also provided the means to examine supply chain risk, thus providing a research instrument for deploying risk as a lens. The application of QM techniques in this novel setting provides support for their application beyond the conventional setting of internal operations.
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Barbara Francioni, Ilaria Curina, Alice Aiudi and Elena Viganò
The purpose of this paper is to examine the global sourcing process of Italian craft microbreweries, particularly by identifying the main antecedents leading to the perception of…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine the global sourcing process of Italian craft microbreweries, particularly by identifying the main antecedents leading to the perception of psychic distance. The study also examines how perceived psychic distance affects the selection of intermediaries and the intention to maintain these relationships, with a specific focus on how intermediaries bridge cultural and logistical gaps in international business.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper employs a qualitative research methodology and adopts a multiple case study approach, focusing on seven small breweries located in central Italy. The study applies thematic analysis to identify and examine key themes and sub-themes related to global sourcing processes, perceived psychic distance and the role of intermediaries. Additionally, the adoption of network theory provides deeper insights into the relationships between breweries, suppliers and intermediaries.
Findings
Results reveal that perceived psychic distance significantly affects global sourcing decisions, with cultural differences, regulatory barriers and communication challenges emerging as critical factors. Intermediaries play a crucial role in facilitating transactions, building trust and providing logistical support. The study highlights the importance of cultural competence, effective communication strategies and trust-building in mitigating the adverse effects of psychic distance.
Research limitations/implications
Limitations are primarily related to the geographical origin of the sample, which is limited to regions in central Italy. Despite this, the study provides valuable insights for craft breweries and other small businesses engaged in international trade. Moreover, it emphasizes the critical role of intermediaries in reducing perceived distance and effectively managing global supply chains.
Originality/value
The study explores a topic largely overlooked in the literature, particularly regarding the analysis of perceived psychic distance, its antecedents and its impact on intermediary selection within the craft beer sector. Additionally, the paper offers valuable guidelines for specific categories of stakeholders (i.e. local intermediaries, foreign suppliers and Italian firms producing raw materials) and provides actionable insights for practitioners, including strategies for supplier selection, quality control and effective communication.
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Aly Owida, P.J. Byrne, Cathal Heavey and Khaled S. El-Kilany
The purpose of this paper aims to evaluate field repair within product-service system (PSS) models operated by multinational manufacturers in the Egyptian emerging market to…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper aims to evaluate field repair within product-service system (PSS) models operated by multinational manufacturers in the Egyptian emerging market to better understand the unique characteristics of this evolving market and to identify differences compared to established markets.
Design/methodology/approach
Case research was conducted on multinational manufacturers providing field repair services in Egypt. The sample is made up of 12 companies across different industries using convenience and purposive sampling. Data were collected using structured interviews.
Findings
There is no common model for field repair PSSs provision in the Egyptian emerging market even within the same industry, which is influenced by several factors. One of these factors is the market type being emerging or established. However, some commonalities have been found between some industries such as computer, telecommunications and document processing. Yet, there is no structural difference in the supply networks used to provide field repair service offerings in the Egyptian emerging market compared to established markets with the trend of outsourcing evident as a main attribute of a PSS in emerging markets. The main differences between established and emerging markets are related to country, culture and customer factors, which are market-based. Among the main challenges and risks that internationalized manufacturers face in Egypt, is the low level of customer awareness.
Research limitations/implications
Findings are limited to the studied cases and industries; yet, internationalized firms must deal with some unique challenges and difficulties in emerging markets.
Practical implications
This paper assesses PSS requirements and provides deeper insights for companies looking to provide or expand manufacturing-based offerings into the Egyptian emerging market.
Originality/value
This paper contributes to the evolving research on PSSs, particularly in emerging markets through identifying and describing different field repair PSS models in the Egyptian emerging market.
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Kuldip Singh Sangwan, Vikrant Bhakar and Abhijeet K. Digalwar
The purpose of this paper is to develop a framework and key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the sustainability of the manufacturing organizations along the integrated…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to develop a framework and key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the sustainability of the manufacturing organizations along the integrated supply chain.
Design/methodology/approach
A systematic literature review of existing peer-reviewed articles has been carried out to understand the strengths and weaknesses of current frameworks. A sustainability assessment framework has been proposed for the manufacturing sector. KPIs to assess sustainability performance of manufacturing organizations are identified. An empirical study is carried out for the cement industry to test the proposed framework and KPIs.
Findings
The existing frameworks on sustainability assessment lacks an integrated assessment consisting product life cycle, resources, critical factors (product, process and policy), KPIs and their interrelationship with sustainability dimensions. In total, 121 KPIs are identified for sustainability assessment of manufacturing organizations. The empirical study of the Indian cement industry identifies 52 KPIs (17 social, 15 economic and 20 environmental), which are classified into 13 factors using exploratory factor analysis.
Research limitations/implications
The proposed framework is tested for the cement sector. More studies are required to validate and refine the framework to make it generalized for the manufacturing sector.
Originality/value
This study has developed for the first time a close interrelation among life cycle engineering, resources, critical factors, KPIs and sustainability dimensions.
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Roberto Joaquin Perez-Franco and Shardul Phadnis
The purpose of this paper is to propose a practical method to elicit – in a manner grounded in fact – the “as is” supply chain strategy that a business unit currently has in…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to propose a practical method to elicit – in a manner grounded in fact – the “as is” supply chain strategy that a business unit currently has in place. It also proposes a framework to represent the supply chain strategy of a business unit in a clear and actionable manner.
Design/methodology/approach
A framework to represent the supply chain strategy of a business unit was developed through inductive theory generation. A method to elicit the current, “as is” supply chain strategy of a business unit was developed through collaborative management research projects and validated by several third-party projects.
Findings
In different projects – many conducted by third parties – the method was found to be a useful approach to elicit the “as is” supply chain strategy of a business unit. Practitioners found value in representing a supply chain strategy as a conceptual system serving as a logical bridge between the overall strategy and the supply chain operations of the business units.
Research limitations/implications
The proposed framework may have limited scalability beyond a single business unit. The proposed method may be less useful when the supply chain strategy is undergoing a dramatic transformation, or when the participants from the company are either not fully engaged in the exercise or knowledgeable about the strategic rationale behind activities.
Originality/value
The paper provides an innovative approach to tap into the tacit knowledge of the organization to reveal the patterns of decisions underpinning its current supply chain strategy and to characterize the supply chain strategy of a business unit as a conceptual system.