Wyniki wyszukiwania - BazTech

1

A simulation-based fuzzy analytic network process approach in developing sustainable manufacturing strategy

Ocampo L., Clark E.

Management and Production Engineering Review

|

2015

|

Vol. 6, No. 2

32--39

EN

This paper adopts a probabilistic fuzzy analytic network process (PROFUZANP) approach in developing a sustainable manufacturing strategy. In this hybrid method, analytic network process handles the complexity of the problem structure under consideration, fuzzy set theory is used to describe vagueness in individual decision-making and probability theory is used to handle randomness in group decision-making. This holistic methodological approach addresses complexity and uncertainty both in individual and group decision-making which is useful in modeling group decisions such as developing a sustainable manufacturing strategy. In this work, an inclusive approach of integrating traditional manufacturing strategy concepts and sustainable manufacturing principles is proposed as a unifying decision model. The proposed decision structure adopts the hierarchical structure of manufacturing strategy and explores the presence of strategic responses and stakeholders’ interests as significant components of sustainability. Using PROFUZANP, the decision model identifies the content policies of sustainable manufacturing strategy. This content strategy is expected to address both competitiveness and sustainability of manufacturing firms. Results are reported in this paper along with insights and future work. The contribution of this work is the integration of manufacturing strategy and sustainability into a coherent decision framework that requires the use of PROFUZANP in dealing with complex and uncertain group decision-making problem.

2

Validating knowledge and technology effects to operative sustainable competitive advantage

Takala J., Koskinen J., Liu Y., Tas M. S., Muhos M.

Management and Production Engineering Review

|

2013

|

Vol. 4, No. 3

45--54

EN

Purpose: This paper aims to present a fresh idea on how to model and examine the level of sustainable competitive advantage (SCA) with and without knowledge and /technology (K/T) effects in a case company’s operation by taking the manufacturing strategy’s development directions and the efficiency of resource allocation among its attributes into consideration. Design/Methodology/approach: In this paper, questionnaires are filled by two different managerial groups, company’s management team (G1) and company’s global directors (G2). The analyses based on G1, G2 and G1-G2 (mixed results) are performed and examined as well as the effect of knowledge and /technology rankings to observe the differences on how they effect on company’s operations strategy and what kind of strategy type that decision makers might follow. Besides, the effects of knowledge/technology rankings on SCA risk levels are examined on different case companies to perceive the similarities and differences with our case company. In this case study, the objectives are achieved based on several methodologies: manufacturing strategy index (MSI) [1] and sense and respond (S&R) methodology [2]. Findings: The achieved results through the model are found to be promising corresponding to the feedback from the respondents. Research limitations/implications: The model is applied only in a big sized B2B global company that produces power electronics products. Therefore, further tests need to be applied to the model in case of multiple companies from different sizes and areas to figure out the best formula in case of validation of strategic direction (MAPE, RSME or MAD). Practical implications: As a result of its wide applicability and its ease in arrangement the model has an enormous potential for strategic decision-making process and strategic analysis. Originality/Value:The model can provide a more dependable possibility of sustainable improvement to the corporate operational excellence and strategy.

3

Study on resource allocations for sustainable competitive advantage

Takala J., Shylina D., Forss T., Malmi J.

Management and Production Engineering Review

|

2013

|

Vol. 4, No. 3

65--75

EN

Today’s concern and problem for most of the companies is the way of surviving and prospering in current and future periods of time in the marketplace. Sustainable competitive ability can be one of the ways of adaptation to the global business and rapid environment requirements. Operational competitiveness is not easy to be sustainably improved because of unpredictable environment situations, such as continuous increasing customer needs, global competitive environment, rapid and unpredictable changes in government policy, company crisis during significant changes etc. However, it is possible to make adaptive adjustments on operations strategy level in dynamic business environment and to become competitive enough compared to the competitors. The purpose of this paper is to define and assess sustainable competitive advantage and the direction of development in housing business. It can be analysed by two core factors, i.e. Sense and Respond (S&R) methodology, Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP) as well as Sustainable competitive advantage (SCA) method. This study also focuses on applying S&R method in order to optimize operational competitiveness as well as defining the competitive priorities of the case company. The analysis results show the critical areas in different departments of the case company, which can help the managers to make quick decisions. In addition, they reveal that during the crisis the resource allocation is continuously changing and therefore the operation strategy of the case company is not well defined as well as competitive advantages are not enough sustainable.

4

The effect of sales planning practices on manufacturing strategy. An international comparative study

Szozda N., Świerczek A.

Logistics and Transport

|

2012

|

Vol. 15, No. 2

51-61

EN

Proper competitive strategy is the means of survival and development for manufacturing companies. In this vein, the producers should perceive a manufacturing strategy as the issue of crucial importance for their market position. It describes the use of manufacturing as a competitive weapon, as opposed to a function that is passive with respect to its competitive environment. Manufacturing companies differ in the way they meet the demand for their products. Some deliver products to their clients from finished goods inventories as their production anticipates customers' orders; others, however, manufacture only in response to customers' orders. In this connection the emphasis of manufacturing strategies is now more to competition in terms of time and customization. Time competition requires an emphasis on time which should not be wasted and is supported by fewer and faster activities being performed. On the other hand, customization means performing some activities according to the unique requirements of an individual customer. Competition in terms of time and customization is reflected in one of the most popular classification of manufacturing strategy, namely: make-to-stock (MTO), assembly-to-order (ATO), make-to-order (MTO) and engineer-to-order (ETO). The application of the strategy may determine the extent the producers use forecasting techniques, combine environmental and market data into forecasting process and prepare forecasts for specific purposes. The goal of the paper is to make a cross-national comparison of the effect of forecasting practices on different types of manufacturing strategies applied in 343 producers from Europe, Asia and Africa. In order to achieve an empirical aim a necessary methodology and statistical analyses have been employed. In the result of the analysis multiple regression models have been developed for specific manufacturing strategies of producers from different countries worldwide. It enabled to make cross-national comparisons of the contribution to variance in manufacturing strategy.