Title :
The implications of firm size on process improvement strategy
Author :
Carrillo, Janice E. ; Gaimon, Cheryl
Author_Institution :
John M. Olin Sch. of Bus., Washington Univ., St. Louis, MO, USA
Abstract :
Although firms must upgrade their manufacturing capabilities to remain competitive over time, successful process improvement implementation is uncertain. Furthermore, several internal characteristics such as the firm´s size and level of knowledge affect the magnitude and the certainty of the benefits realized. A comprehensive stochastic model is introduced which yields managerial insights concerning the impact of firm size on appropriate process improvement and knowledge acquisition strategies. Analytic results are derived linking firm size to relevant cost and efficiency advantages. Manufacturing managers can utilize the model to tailor appropriate process improvement and knowledge acquisition strategies for their firms
Keywords :
management; management of change; manufacture; stochastic processes; change management; cost advantages; efficiency advantages; firm size implications; innovation management; internal characteristics; knowledge acquisition strategies; knowledge level; managerial insights; manufacturing capabilities; manufacturing process improvement strategy; stochastic model; Costs; Joining processes; Knowledge acquisition; Knowledge management; Manufacturing processes; Production; Stochastic processes; Technology management; Uncertainty; Virtual manufacturing;
Conference_Titel :
Innovation in Technology Management - The Key to Global Leadership. PICMET '97: Portland International Conference on Management and Technology
Conference_Location :
Portland, OR
Print_ISBN :
0-7803-3574-0
DOI :
10.1109/PICMET.1997.653650
