Enabling collaborative solutions across the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem

A qualitative empirical study of over 25 semiconductor manufacturer and supplier firms investigates the challenges associated with implementing lean practices that require broadly based collaboration across firms. The study finds that the biggest challenge to industry-wide collaboration is managing knowledge flows between users and suppliers in a manner that allows all parties to collaborate without losing competitive advantage. Knowledge impedance emerges as the key variable that affects competitive advantage. The paper also presents insights into how inter-organizational knowledge is created in the semiconductor industry. Finally, the paper suggests best practices through which inter-firm knowledge flows can be managed effectively.