Lean manufacturing practices (LMPs) and corporate environmental sustainability are becoming inextricably linked. Throughout the lean and green debate, many organisations have recognised that LMPs have implications for their sustainable development and competitive positioning. Not only LMPs are complex on their own, but when perceived from an environmental sustainability perspective, the decision to implement an LMP can become even more intricate. Although general tools exist, the lack of effective decision-making tools to help in the implementation of LMPs with an environmental sustainability dimension is palpable. Thus, this study tackles the aforementioned decision problem by incorporating environmental and operational performance outcome expectations as these expectations are viewed in light of the ease of implementation of various LMPs. A novel multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) model for evaluation of LMPs is developed in this respect. The model integrates a three-parameter interval grey number with rough set theory and the TODIM method. The model is run using empirical data from six manufacturing organisations. The findings facilitate the identification of a 'locus of investments' for a better selection of LMPs. The robustness of the decision support model developed is assessed through sensitivity analysis.
SUMMARY
A strategic perspective for insource/outsource decisions is provided for organizations whose competitive strategies are based on product differentiation and/or focus. The basic tenants of four previous frameworks for strategic sourcing from the literature are briefly reviewed. Following a critique of these frameworks, a new strategic sourcing framework is proposed. Elements of the frame‐work are discussed in terms of primary factors (competitive advantage and demand flexibility) and secondary factors (process capability, process maturity, and strategic risk). A decision flowchart incorporating these factors is given to illustrate the functioning of the proposed framework. Implementation issues are discussed using a case study wherein two products from an electronics equipment manufacturer are subjected to sourcing decisions using the framework.
Supply chain risk management (SCRM) is an interdisciplinary emerging area of research crossing over operations management, finance and marketing, among other disciplines. Conceptualization of SCRM is argued in reference to previous studies on risk identification, risk assessment, supply chain vulnerabilities and risk management approaches used. A SCRM framework is then developed based on taxonomies defined for risk events and risk management approaches. In line with this framework, a risk management planning process is proposed with an illustrative example.
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