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Article
Publication date: 24 October 2008

Yuan‐Yuan Jiao, Jun Du, Roger J. Jiao and David L. Butler

Existing earlier supplier involvement (ESI) models mostly emphasize the product development perspective with limited attention to the process development dimension. Towards this…

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Abstract

Purpose

Existing earlier supplier involvement (ESI) models mostly emphasize the product development perspective with limited attention to the process development dimension. Towards this end, this paper aims at a tailored framework for semiconductor manufacturing firms by taking into account the implementation of ESI in process development as well as product development.

Design/methodology/approach

A number of well‐recognized propositions are examined through a case study of MIC Semiconductors Asia. Based on observations from the case study, the problems of existing frameworks are analyzed and accordingly possible solutions are explored.

Findings

The case study reveals the importance of process development in ESI implementation. It is imperative to build up on some fundamentals of the company before ESI can be carried out successfully. Also observed is that the effectiveness of a supplier selection criterion should be gauged from the performance of the suppliers. It is also found out what type of relationships with suppliers are favorable to ESI, regardless whether the length of the relationship can be translated to trust in technical capability in practice.

Originality/value

Examining existing ESI models through a real case study sheds light on the practical application of ESI. In particular, the semiconductor manufacturing process is emphasized in addition to the general ESI focus on product development.

Details

Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, vol. 19 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-038X

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Article
Publication date: 1 February 1998

S. Dowlatshahi

Explores the impact of early supplier involvement (ESI) on product development practices. Develops a conceptual framework and a case study for effective implementation of ESI. A…

6595

Abstract

Explores the impact of early supplier involvement (ESI) on product development practices. Develops a conceptual framework and a case study for effective implementation of ESI. A conceptual framework for ESI in product development consists of the four building blocks of design, procurement, supplier, and manufacturing requirements. Notes that, while each of the building blocks has a unique role in ESI, their interrelationships are the focus of the ESI conceptual framework. These blocks are decomposed into a set of specific tasks required to implement ESI. Applies the framework in a company that currently implements ESI in order to test and validate its viability. This comparison enumerates the examples of success and failure of ESI and two measurements of the company’s ESI effectiveness. Discusses the framework’s validity and proposes modifications. Additionally, presents a set of findings, hypotheses, and recommendations for implementing ESI. Also presents a set of hypotheses as a basis for future ESI theory building and testing.

Details

International Journal of Operations & Production Management, vol. 18 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0144-3577

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Article
Publication date: 1 February 2002

A strike triggered by religious holidays and summer breaks nearly brought ABC Consumer Electronics’ flagship maquiladora plant at Juarez to its knees. But it ultimately forced…

722

Abstract

A strike triggered by religious holidays and summer breaks nearly brought ABC Consumer Electronics’ flagship maquiladora plant at Juarez to its knees. But it ultimately forced revisions in labor laws which improved the workers’ lot across the consumer electronics industry in Mexico. The dispute over consolidating religious holidays into a “Holy Week” soon escalated into a strike at the end of January 1995, with workers and administrative staff leaving before being blockaded inside the works. A further grievance was the decision to keep the factory running throughout July rather than shutting down for its usual two‐week break. But there were deeper underlying causes, and fanning the flames was maquiladora itself, as a case study by Dowlatshahi reveals.

Details

Human Resource Management International Digest, vol. 10 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0967-0734

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Book part
Publication date: 19 November 2003

Shams Rahman

Abstract

Details

Handbook of Transport and the Environment
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-0-080-44103-0

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Article
Publication date: 1 August 2002

A. Michael Knemeyer, Thomas G. Ponzurick and Cyril M. Logar

The current study demonstrates the value of utilizing qualitative research methods to analyze logistics problems. Specifically, the study utilizes a qualitative methodology to…

5657

Abstract

The current study demonstrates the value of utilizing qualitative research methods to analyze logistics problems. Specifically, the study utilizes a qualitative methodology to examine the feasibility of designing a reverse logistics system to recycle and/or refurbish end‐of‐life computers that are deemed no longer useful by their owners. The qualitative methodology is a modified version of a customer visit program in which the in‐depth interviews were used to identify the special needs of stakeholders who could potentially participate in the proposed system. The qualitative interviews were structured and implemented using a standardized approach set forth in the literature. The results indicate that this qualitative technique proved valuable in obtaining industry‐sensitive stakeholder data, which allowed the researchers to more thoroughly analyze the feasibility of the proposed reverse logistics system.

Details

International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, vol. 32 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0960-0035

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Book part
Publication date: 20 October 2015

Mohammad Shamsuddoha

Contemporary literature reveals that, to date, the poultry livestock sector has not received sufficient research attention. This particular industry suffers from unstructured…

Abstract

Contemporary literature reveals that, to date, the poultry livestock sector has not received sufficient research attention. This particular industry suffers from unstructured supply chain practices, lack of awareness of the implications of the sustainability concept and failure to recycle poultry wastes. The current research thus attempts to develop an integrated supply chain model in the context of poultry industry in Bangladesh. The study considers both sustainability and supply chain issues in order to incorporate them in the poultry supply chain. By placing the forward and reverse supply chains in a single framework, existing problems can be resolved to gain economic, social and environmental benefits, which will be more sustainable than the present practices.

The theoretical underpinning of this research is ‘sustainability’ and the ‘supply chain processes’ in order to examine possible improvements in the poultry production process along with waste management. The research adopts the positivist paradigm and ‘design science’ methods with the support of system dynamics (SD) and the case study methods. Initially, a mental model is developed followed by the causal loop diagram based on in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and observation techniques. The causal model helps to understand the linkages between the associated variables for each issue. Finally, the causal loop diagram is transformed into a stock and flow (quantitative) model, which is a prerequisite for SD-based simulation modelling. A decision support system (DSS) is then developed to analyse the complex decision-making process along the supply chains.

The findings reveal that integration of the supply chain can bring economic, social and environmental sustainability along with a structured production process. It is also observed that the poultry industry can apply the model outcomes in the real-life practices with minor adjustments. This present research has both theoretical and practical implications. The proposed model’s unique characteristics in mitigating the existing problems are supported by the sustainability and supply chain theories. As for practical implications, the poultry industry in Bangladesh can follow the proposed supply chain structure (as par the research model) and test various policies via simulation prior to its application. Positive outcomes of the simulation study may provide enough confidence to implement the desired changes within the industry and their supply chain networks.

Details

Sustaining Competitive Advantage Via Business Intelligence, Knowledge Management, and System Dynamics
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78560-707-3

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Article
Publication date: 12 October 2010

Shad Dowlatshahi and Soheil Hooshangi

The maquiladora industry is a manufacturing system that utilizes the Mexican workforce and foreign investment and technology on the border region between the USA and Mexico. This…

887

Abstract

Purpose

The maquiladora industry is a manufacturing system that utilizes the Mexican workforce and foreign investment and technology on the border region between the USA and Mexico. This study seeks to explore managerial support and employee involvement as well as quality processes (internal enablers) and supplier selection criteria (external factors) in the maquiladora industry with respect to ISO 9000 certification.

Design/methodology/approach

The enablers of ISO certification were studied through a survey instrument and extensive field interviews with experts of maquiladora plants in El Paso, Texas and Juarez, Mexico. Based on a 78 percent response rate (171 usable questionnaires) and 11 in‐depth interviews of quality experts in eight industries, statistical analyses including reliability and validity analyses, factor analyses, tests of hypothesis, and ANOVA were performed.

Findings

The four hypotheses developed were verified. Based on the analyses, ISO‐certified companies exemplified better and longer‐term relationships with main/core suppliers, greater top managerial support and employee involvement and communication, and more effective quality processes than those of non ISO‐certified companies.

Practical implications

The results of the study could assist maquiladoras to improve their internal and external enablers in order to have a better chance of achieving ISO certification. Likewise, the headquarters of the maquiladoras could benefit from the identification and recognition of these internal and external enablers.

Originality/value

The quality of products manufactured in maquiladoras should be congruent with the parts and products produced in their headquarters. The paper addresses the role and importance of ISO certification for both maquiladoras and their headquarters. The headquarters could provide the necessary support and resources for achievement or ISO certification in maquiladoras.

Details

International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, vol. 27 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0265-671X

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Article
Publication date: 7 September 2015

Qing Hu, Robert Mason, Sharon J. Williams and Pauline Found

Lean business ideology has been one of the recent dominant research areas in operations management. However, there is a dearth of research focusing on Lean in small- and…

9479

Abstract

Purpose

Lean business ideology has been one of the recent dominant research areas in operations management. However, there is a dearth of research focusing on Lean in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The purpose of this paper is to fill this gap by systematically reviewing the literature in relation to the implementation of Lean in SMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

Tranfield et al.s (2003) systematic review methodology was employed covering three stages: planning, conducting and reporting/dissemination.

Findings

A descriptive analysis of the papers reviewed is provided. From the thematic analysis of the literature four main themes are identified: the scope/type of Lean being adopted by SMEs, how Lean is used in SMEs, the impact of Lean implementation on SMEs and the critical success factors for Lean implementation in SMEs. Key inhibitors and enablers related to firm size when implementing Lean are also identified in the concluding discussion.

Research limitations/implications

Nine recommendations for future research are developed associated with Lean implementation in SMEs.

Practical implications

The authors suggest SMEs to integrate organisational factors such as employee empowerment and the development of a supportive strategy into their Lean implementation plans. A preliminary “Staircase Road Map” to guide SMEs in implementing Lean is also developed.

Originality/value

This paper goes beyond previous literature reviews of Lean by systematically and critically evaluating key themes of Lean implementation within an SME environment. It not only provides a road map for SME owners/managers who intend to implement Lean, but also provides the academic community with an agenda for future research.

Details

Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, vol. 26 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-038X

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Article
Publication date: 5 October 2015

Yi-Chun Huang, Shams Rahman, Yen-Chun Jim Wu and Chi-Jui Huang

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of the salient task environment on reverse logistics (RL) practices and organizational performance in the context of…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of the salient task environment on reverse logistics (RL) practices and organizational performance in the context of Taiwanese computer, communication, and consumer (3C) electronics retail industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A hierarchical regression analysis was employed to test relationships between four constituents of the task environment and RL, as well as relationships between RL and environmental/economic performance. In addition, a regression analysis was used to examine the mediating effect of RL on relationships between the constituents of the task environment and environmental/economic performance. Data and information collected from a sample of 284 companies from the Taiwanese 3C retail industry were used for analysis.

Findings

Results suggest that three out of four constituents of task environment including government agencies, suppliers, and customers are associated positively with RL activities. In other words, as the salience of the constituents of the task environment increases, their level of influence on the firm’s RL also increases. This study also found the mediating effect of RL, indicating that superior performance emerges when a company’s RL matches the salient task environment.

Practical implications

The findings provide an insight into the relationships between the constituents of the task environment, RL, and environmental/economic performance which can assist firms within 3C retail industry in designing and developing appropriate strategy for RL. In practice, some retailers, especially SMEs, have outsourced their RL to professional recyclers. Investment in RL activity may be an option for some 3C retailers.

Originality/value

While previous research provides a strong foundation to further develop RL and subsequent policies, analysis of the factors affecting the decision processes to implement RL specially in the retail sector is scarce. This study fills this gap.

Details

International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, vol. 45 no. 9/10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0960-0035

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Book part
Publication date: 29 March 2016

Marc Wouters, Susana Morales, Sven Grollmuss and Michael Scheer

The paper provides an overview of research published in the innovation and operations management (IOM) literature on 15 methods for cost management in new product development, and…

Abstract

Purpose

The paper provides an overview of research published in the innovation and operations management (IOM) literature on 15 methods for cost management in new product development, and it provides a comparison to an earlier review of the management accounting (MA) literature (Wouters & Morales, 2014).

Methodology/approach

This structured literature search covers papers published in 23 journals in IOM in the period 1990–2014.

Findings

The search yielded a sample of 208 unique papers with 275 results (one paper could refer to multiple cost management methods). The top 3 methods are modular design, component commonality, and product platforms, with 115 results (42%) together. In the MA literature, these three methods accounted for 29%, but target costing was the most researched cost management method by far (26%). Simulation is the most frequently used research method in the IOM literature, whereas this was averagely used in the MA literature; qualitative studies were the most frequently used research method in the MA literature, whereas this was averagely used in the IOM literature. We found a lot of papers presenting practical approaches or decision models as a further development of a particular cost management method, which is a clear difference from the MA literature.

Research limitations/implications

This review focused on the same cost management methods, and future research could also consider other cost management methods which are likely to be more important in the IOM literature compared to the MA literature. Future research could also investigate innovative cost management practices in more detail through longitudinal case studies.

Originality/value

This review of research on methods for cost management published outside the MA literature provides an overview for MA researchers. It highlights key differences between both literatures in their research of the same cost management methods.

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