Global Operations: A Review and Outlook

Abstract

In this chapter, we develop a site classification framework that combines manufacturing site advantages with manufacturing network-level targets. This framework is the first step for a company-specific site role portfolio. The framework helps to visualise site strengths and weaknesses from a capability-and knowledge-based perspective. Further, it highlights the site's contribution to the network targets and combines site-and network-level dimensions. To develop the site classification framework, we extend Ferdows' (1997) introduced dimensions of location advantages and competences with the interconnection of sites from a knowledge-based view. We use a single case study to refine the theoretically derived framework. We add to existing theory because we apply a multi-level perspective and derive methods to measure a sites contribution to the network. In addition, we provide global site managers with a helpful visualisation tool.

Guest editorialRethinking international manufacturing in times of global turbulence

“…Two major research tracks can be distinguished regarding international manufacturing, namely manufacturing network research and supply chain research (Rudberg and Olhager, 2003). The former is defined as a coordinated aggregation (network) of intra-firm manufacturing facilities located in different places and as an internal network with all facilities under full financial control (Cheng et al , 2014), while the latter is analysed as an external (inter-firm) network with manufacturing facilities owned by different organisations and characterised by sets of purposeful and interconnected exchange relationships to transform resources into finished products for end customers. The 11 papers selected for this special issue cover issues within or between the two research tracks.…”

“…Five papers in this special issue pay attention to plants embedded in either a manufacturing network or a supply chain. In fact, manufacturing plants can be viewed as the integral parts and even the basic constructs of a manufacturing network and a supply chain/network (Cheng et al , 2014). Their roles are normally determined according to two dimensions, i.e.…”

“…1. The need of rethinking international manufacturing in times of global turbulence Indisputably, the trend of international manufacturing has been bound to persist and grow (Cheng et al, 2014). With the prevalence of globally distributed plants and suppliers, international manufacturing has already been a complex issue for both practitioners and researchers.…”

Research in global operations management: some highlights and potential future trends

“…Another important achievement in the field of global OM is Johansen et al (2014), which contains 11 studies discussing various aspects of IMNs. The book contains a literature review, as well (Cheng et al, 2014).…”