Suchergebnisse

Discusses how many competitive initiatives have been implemented in the quest for competitive advantage; however, these initiatives have frequently failed to yield the sought after improvements in firm competitiveness. Part of the implementation problem is that strategic initiatives often lack the organizational support needed for success. To understand the linkage better between strategic intent and value‐added performance, looks at the relationships that exist between strategy, measurement, and operational performance. Reveals that significant gaps exist between selected strategic priorities and both measurement capabilities and performance. Suggests expanding measurement horizons to include a broader range of non‐traditional measures. By increasing strategic alignment companies can expect to increase their competitive performance.

Notes the various factors, e.g. increased domestic production costs, which have led many US firms to pursue production sharing efforts in overseas regions. Also that areas having attractive trade relationships with the USA have become particularly favourable locations for investment in production facilities catering to export markets. Cites the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI), established in 1982, as one trade agreement which has resulted in increased production sharing ventures due to liberal import‐export legislation. Notes, however, that these overseas facilities, traditionally are characterized by increased transportation costs and related logistics problems. Investigates the current logistics performance within the value‐added strategies of North American firms operating in the Caribbean Basin. A survey of corporate managers responsible for strategic business unit operations was conducted in order to understand better the relative importance of logistics related priorities and information gathering capabilities, the nature of production sharing within the CBI, and the logistics performance of the firms within this region. Discusses managerial implications and conclusions.

The growth of production‐sharing activities in Mexico has highlighted the need to explore the nature and competitive impact of production sharing. Presents and discusses some of the experiences firms can expect to encounter in Mexican operations. Uses an interview methodology to collect data regarding key manufacturing and logistics issues. Chooses to take an integrated approach that looks at both manufacturing and logistics at the same time because important cost and performance trade‐offs exist that influence the long‐term attractiveness of Mexican operations. Discovers tremendous diversity existing in almost all operating areas and that progress is being made towards the establishment of world‐class logistics and manufacturing practices.