Road to digital manufacturing – a longitudinal case-based analysis

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Krisztina Demeter ◽  
Dávid Losonci ◽  
Judit Nagy
Keyword(s):  
Operations Management ◽  
Dynamic Capabilities ◽  
Digital Transformation ◽  
Strategy Development ◽  
Digital Manufacturing ◽  
Longitudinal Case Study ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Novel Technologies ◽  
Resource Stock

PurposeThe authors’ main objective is to examine the resource alteration underlying the digital manufacturing transformation. The authors rely on the adaptation aspect of dynamic capabilities (DC) theory and their analysis shows how and why a factory adapts its resources and capabilities during digital transformation.Design/methodology/approachTo grasp the change, the authors apply the longitudinal case study method within a revelatory case setting. The digital transformation is detailed from the perspective of a subsidiary that has played a key role in the division's digital transformation.FindingsAnalysing the revealed four stages of the transformation through the lenses of the DC components of adaptation (sensing capability, absorptive capacity, integrative capability, relational capability), this study suggests a sequence with unbalanced characteristics. Each stage starts with sensing capability, each component appears during each stage and each stage is dominated by a different component. Relying on the path dependency concept, the authors also present that the interplay between lean as an old resource stock and digital manufacturing as a new resource stock is rather a necessity, especially at the beginning of the transformation (at a corporation that pursues lean for years).Practical implicationsDigital strategy development is rather an intermediate element of the transformation, since committed personnel (or maybe their network) start bottom-up and coordinate initiatives as they sense the opportunities in the environment. Top managers should rely on their accumulated knowledge and involve them into the transfer coalition in the top-down phase of digitalization. The authors’ case also underlines that starting to experiment with novel technologies requires a solid (and usually expensive) technological and human basis. Finally, process improvement focussed developments at a high-performing factory might be just enough to deal with ever-demanding customer expectations.Originality/valueThis study is among the firsts in operations management that relies on the DC theory to follow up the digital transformation of a factory. A further valuable contribution is that the adaptation process is examined in a longitudinal case study.

Adopting a digital transformation strategy to enhance business network commons regeneration: an explorative case study

2020 ◽  
Vol 32 (4) ◽  
pp. 561-585
Author(s):  
Alessia Zoppelletto ◽  
Ludovico Bullini Orlandi ◽  
Cecilia Rossignoli
Keyword(s):  
Business Strategy ◽  
Digital Transformation ◽  
Business Networks ◽  
Longitudinal Case Study ◽  
Business Network ◽  
Sustainable Business ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Italian Case ◽  
Transformation Strategy

PurposeThis article aims to understand whether and how a digital transformation strategy (DTS) can strengthen the relationship between network organizations and the generation/regeneration of their business network commons (BNC). Further, it investigates the role of the DTS in managing the BNC, a critical source of business network success.Design/methodology/approachA two-year longitudinal case study of an Italian business network operating in the wine sector was conducted.FindingsThis study provides theoretical insights into the digital, sustainable shift of a business network. On combining a network's business strategy and its DTS, digital resources are a key driver to promote BNC regeneration. A DTS undertaken to manage, regenerate and preserve the BNC can positively affect organizational variables, such as participatory architecture, and the network-level organizational integration and can help in preventing opportunistic behaviors affecting the BNC. Moreover, the DTS supports quality and social responsibility.Research limitations/implicationsThis study focuses on an Italian case and its findings are hence not generalizable. It would be interesting to study sustainable business networks' digital shift in different socioeconomic contexts as well as in different industry settings.Practical implicationsNetwork SMEs and other stakeholders (institutions, competitors and consumers) can foster the transition from a “business-as-usual” strategy to a long-term strategy for digitalized management of common resources.Originality/valueThe study is at the intersection of, and contributes to, several research streams. It contributes to the digital transformation literature by adding information on the positive externalities of digitalization in the social and economic environment. It also contributes to the early streams of organizational and managerial literature on the BNC.

How capabilities evolve in a born global firm?

2014 ◽  
Vol 6 (3) ◽  
pp. 223-242 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nishant Kumar ◽  
Ali Yakhlef
Keyword(s):  
Dynamic Capabilities ◽  
Service Industry ◽  
Single Case ◽  
New Ventures ◽  
Born Global ◽  
Longitudinal Case Study ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Knowledge Intensive ◽  
Born Global Firms

Purpose – The aim of this paper to examine the mechanism through which the capabilities related to internationalisation emerge and are acquired as firms internationalise. Design/methodology/approach – This study draws on existing literature on born global firms and dynamic capabilities to develop a tentative framework and then use that to examine a longitudinal case study of an Indian firm operating within knowledge-intensive services industry. The role played by these capabilities in the survival and sustained international growth of born global firms has been probed. Findings – The study establishes a link between firm’s ability to develop such capabilities for global service delivery and its growth and survival. It is suggested that dynamic capabilities emerge as the result of a mix of experiential and deliberate learning processes, being in a constant change in rhythm with changes in domestic and in international business environments. Research limitations/implications – This study is based on a single case study from knowledge-intensive service industry in India with its own particular characteristics. Thus, the findings of this study may not be generalised across other emerging markets or industry. Practical implications – Entrepreneurs and managers of new ventures can benefit from this study, as this study helps them develop a deeper understanding of the different capability requirements for successful internationalisation. Originality/value – This study contributed to the existing literature on capability evolution in born global firms.

Collaborative approach to digital transformation (CADT) model for manufacturing SMEs

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jonathan Brodeur ◽  
Robert Pellerin ◽  
Isabelle Deschamps
Keyword(s):  
Industry 4.0 ◽  
Manufacturing Industry ◽  
Digital Transformation ◽  
Collaborative Approach ◽  
Longitudinal Case Study ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Aerospace Manufacturing ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
New Perspective

PurposeThis paper aims to propose a collaborative approach model developed based on observations of two aerospace manufacturing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) pursuing their digital transformation toward Industry 4.0.Design/methodology/approachThis research focuses on two manufacturing SMEs in North America, and data were collected using longitudinal case study and research intervention method. Data collection was performed through observation and intervention within the collaborative projects over 18 months.FindingsA model of a collaborative approach to digital transformation (CADT) for manufacturing SMEs was produced. Based on the study findings, the collaboration manifests itself at various stages of the transformation projects, such as the business needs alignment, project portfolio creation, technology solution selection and post-mortem phase.Research limitations/implicationsResearch using the case study method has a limitation in the generalization of the model. The CADT model generated in this study might be specific to the aerospace manufacturing industry and collaboration patterns between manufacturing SMEs. The results could vary in different contexts.Practical implicationsThe proposed CADT model is particularly relevant for manufacturing SMEs' managers and consultants working on digital transformation projects. By adopting this approach, they could better plan and guide their collaboration approach during their Industry 4.0 transformation.Originality/valueThis research provides a new perspective to digital transformation approaches in the aerospace industry. It can be integrated into other research findings to formulate a more integrated and comprehensive CADT model in industries where SMEs are significant players.

scholarly journals Operations strategy development in project based production – a political process perspective

2015 ◽  
Vol 26 (4) ◽  
pp. 501-514 ◽  
Author(s):  
Christian Koch ◽  
Ole Friis
Keyword(s):  
Small Body ◽  
Political Process ◽  
Middle Level ◽  
Strategy Development ◽  
Operations Strategy ◽  
Operation Strategy ◽  
Longitudinal Case Study ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Lean Principles

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to study how operations strategy (OS) innovation occurs in a project-centred production and organisation. Design/methodology/approach – A longitudinal case study encompassing the processes at the headquarters of the company and in two projects using lean. Findings – The operation strategy development commences at a middle level in the organisation, is underpinned and embedded in production projects and only after several years becomes embedded in the corporate operation strategy. Projects use lean principles in a differentiated manner. Research limitations/implications – A qualitative case study provides insight into only a single occasion of change in OS. More case studies would probably reveal several paths of OS development. OS development need to be handled as emergent, political and with contributions from several managers and management levels, bridging the vertical divides between projects and headquarter. Practical implications – A conscious and systematic vertical integration and interaction is crucial in project-based companies doing operation strategy development, something critically difficult at building contractors. Originality/value – The present study contributes to the small body of studies of OS development processes, by providing insight in how project-based companies renew their operation strategy.

Implementing standardised flow: navigating operational and professional dependencies

2020 ◽  
Vol 40 (7/8) ◽  
pp. 1177-1199
Author(s):  
Marianna Frangeskou ◽  
Michael A. Lewis ◽  
Christos Vasilakis
Keyword(s):  
Operations Management ◽  
Resource Sharing ◽  
Care Pathway ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Healthcare Setting ◽  
Longitudinal Case Study ◽  
Acute Stroke Care ◽  
Specific Flow ◽  
Content Type

PurposeThe purpose of this study had two aims: (1) to extend insight regarding the challenges of implementing standardised work, via care pathways, in a healthcare setting by considering interactions with other operational (i.e. resource sharing, portfolio alignment) and professional (i.e. autonomous expertise) dependencies and (2) to develop novel insights regarding a specific flow mechanism, the stroke nurse practitioner, a form of flow “pilo” or guide.Design/methodology/approachThis was a longitudinal case study of implementing the acute stroke care pathway in a National Health Service hospital in England based on 185 hours of non-participant observations and 68 semi-structured interviews. Archival documents were also analysed.FindingsThe combined flow, operational and professional dependency lens extends operations management understanding of the challenge of implementing standardised work in healthcare. One observed practice, the process pilot role, may be particularly valuable in dealing with these dependencies but it requires specific design and continuous support, for which the authors provide some initial guidance.Research limitations/implicationsThe research was a single case study and was focussed on a single care pathway. The findings require replication and extension but offer a novel set of insights into the implications of standardised work in healthcare.Originality/valueIn addition to confirming that a multidependency lens adds conceptual and practical insight to the challenges of implementing standardised work in a healthcare setting, the findings and recommendations regarding flow “pilots” are novel. The authors' analysis of this role reveals new insights regarding the need for continued improvisation in standardised work.

scholarly journals Dynamic capabilities for digital transformation

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Daniel Ellström ◽  
Johan Holtstrom ◽  
Emma Berg ◽  
Cecilia Johansson
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Dynamic Capabilities ◽  
Digital Transformation ◽  
Strategy Development ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Digital Infrastructure ◽  
Consultancy Firm ◽  
Inside Out ◽  
Practical Implications

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to identify sensing, seizing and reconfiguring routines of dynamic capabilities that enable digital transformation in firms.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative approach is used. Representatives from a firm going through digital transformations are interviewed, and focus groups have been carried out with a consultancy firm experienced in giving advice to firms going through digital transformation.FindingsSix routines identified as relevant specifically for digital transformation are identified. These are cross-industrial digital sensing, inside-out digital infrastructure sensing, digital strategy development, determination of enterprise boundaries, decomposition of digital transformation into specified projects and creation of a unified digital infrastructure.Practical implicationsThe authors provide direction for managers on how to approach digital transformation. In relation to previous research, the authors provide more specific guidance regarding how to reconfigure the organization in digital transformation.Originality/valueThe paper uses a novel context for digital transformation and complements the very few studies available using dynamic capabilities to understand digital transformation.

Is culture change a fad? Driving business results at Penna, ten years on

2014 ◽  
Vol 13 (3) ◽  
pp. 123-126
Author(s):  
Bev White ◽  
Gary Browning ◽  
Javier Bajer
Keyword(s):  
Culture Change ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Organizational Context ◽  
Longitudinal Case Study ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Business Results ◽  
Sustainable Culture ◽  
Systemic Interventions ◽  
Successful Business

Purpose – Ten years ago Penna, the global HR services group, needed a radical business and culture re-invention if it was to survive. This article aims to tell the story behind Penna's journey and describe how a sustainable culture change intervention became the cornerstone of a successful business. Design/methodology/approach – This case study is the result of an initial ethnographical research followed by concrete and systemic interventions. Findings – The case study identifies four elements that sustained the business impact of a culture change program over a significant period of time. Originality/value – This longitudinal case study follows a culture change program in an organizational context over a period of ten years.

Cooperative behaviour and place branding: a longitudinal case study in Italy

2016 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 156-172 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chiara Rinaldi ◽  
Alessio Cavicchi
Keyword(s):  
Geographical Area ◽  
Place Branding ◽  
Cooperative Behaviour ◽  
Longitudinal Case Study ◽  
Case Study Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Study Methodology ◽  
As Relationship

Purpose This paper aims to understand the motivations driving cooperative behaviour between heterogeneous stakeholders in place-branding activities, focusing on contract-based and relation-based cooperation constructs. Design/methodology/approach The longitudinal case study method is used to help understanding how the investigated network has evolved over four years from an attempt to build a regional umbrella-brand to a network contract between 13 enterprises. Findings The findings suggest that the relationships of trust and shared values among stakeholders are essential to foster cooperation, but also that contract-based governance complements a relation-based governance, enhancing the performance of the alliance. Research limitations/implications The main limitation is related to the case study methodology, as results are strongly dependent on the specific characteristics of the stakeholders and the geographical area analysed. Social implications The role of stakeholders in building a place brand is increasingly important. When analysing cooperative behaviour drivers, more attention should be paid to such intangible assets as social, human, relational and organisational capital. Originality/value This longitudinal case study emphasises that for success in place-branding activities, contract-based cooperation can be particularly useful at the beginning of a network alliance, while relation-based cooperation ensures the strength and continuity of the partnership but it takes time to develop. Responsible leaders, working as relationship facilitators/enablers, are important to keep network members engaged, by creating trust and favouring mutual beneficial relationships between stakeholders.

Learning during developing and implementing new bank offerings

2005 ◽  
Vol 23 (1) ◽  
pp. 54-72 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eric Stevens ◽  
Sergios Dimitriadis
Keyword(s):  
Learning Strategies ◽  
Qualitative Methodology ◽  
Development Process ◽  
Development Project ◽  
Longitudinal Case Study ◽  
Learning Mechanisms ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Development Processes ◽  
Informal Development

PurposeKnowledge of the management issues for developing new bank offerings efficiently is limited. Furthermore, recent research suggests that organisational learning can contribute greatly to the success of innovation projects. The aims of this paper are to provide a detailed description of the development process of a new financial product and to identify learning actions that may contribute to its effectiveness.Design/methodology/approachReports findings from a qualitative, longitudinal case study of a well‐known French bank.FindingsThe results revealed an informal development process consisting of a sequence of issues to solve and decisions to make.Research limitations/implicationsThough observations fit with the theoretical model, the findings cannot be generalized due to the use of a qualitative methodology. Thus, selecting a development project that brings variance to the scope and degree of innovativeness could enrich the observed learning mechanisms. Second, as services are very heterogeneous, further research should be done on the development processes of different new services, for example standardised versus customised. Third, mechanisms of adoption or avoidance of learning procedures remain to be explored extensively. Understanding the reasons of choice and adoption of learning strategies according to the environment and nature of the project could lead to further managerial recommendations.Practical implicationsImplications for banks to encourage learning during innovation are discussed and several opportunities for further research are suggested.Originality/valueAn informal development process is revealed, consisting of a sequence of issues to solve and decisions to make. Multiple learning actions and strategies are identified that enhance process effectiveness and efficiency.

Purchasing behaviour and supplier base evolution – a longitudinal case study

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Anna Dubois ◽  
Lars-Erik Gadde ◽  
Lars-Gunnar Mattsson
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Longitudinal Case Study ◽  
Short Term ◽  
Supplier Relationships ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Purchasing Behaviour ◽  
Time Periods

Purpose The purpose of the paper is to describe and analyse the evolution of the supplier base of a buying firm and the reasons behind these changes. Design/methodology/approach The paper is based on a case study of the changes over 52 years in a sub-set of the supplier base of a firm manufacturing fork-lifts. Findings The study shows that some relationships feature substantial longevity. However, the duration of one-third of the total relationships is shorter than five years. There was considerable variation over time in the dynamics of the supplier base in terms of entries and exits of suppliers. Owing to this variation, research findings and conclusions in short-term studies are heavily dependent on the specific conditions at the time of the study. Finally, no less than one-fourth of the terminated supplier relationships were reactivated later. Research limitations/implications The study was designed in a time when purchasing was considered entirely from the perspective of the buying firm. Further studies, therefore, must increasingly emphasise the role of suppliers and the interaction in the buyer–supplier relationships, as well as the embeddedness in networks. Originality/value The findings of the study are unique in two ways. First, they are based on systematic observations over more than 50 years. Second, the study involves the purchases of 11 components representing different technical and economic features. The (few) previous studies are based on much shorter time periods and involves fewer suppliers/components. Moreover, the findings regarding re-activation of terminated relationships represent unique contributions.

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