The role of group working in assembly organization
International Journal of Operations & Production Management
ISSN: 0144-3577
Article publication date: 1 February 1996
Abstract
Demonstrates how different forms of assembly organization can be classified on the basis of three structural characteristics and analyses the possible relationships between these characteristics and the various dimensions of competitive advantage. Uses the resulting model of the “assembly organization cube” to show that ‐ apart from four “pure” forms of assembly organization ‐ there is a multitude of potential “hybrid” forms, all of which may be expected to support the competitive advantage of the business in different ways from one another. Applies the model to a case study of group working in a clothing manufacturing plant. Explains how the net effects of the move from progressive assembly in batches towards a form of assembly organization incorporating somewhat longer task cycles, tighter coupling, and a more horizontal form of co‐operation have been significant improvements in each of the dimensions of competitive advantage targeted (throughput times, product flexibility, in‐process quality, and production efficiency) as well as an increase in the level of job satisfaction of assembly operators.
Keywords
Citation
van der Meer, R. and Gudim, M. (1996), "The role of group working in assembly organization", International Journal of Operations & Production Management, Vol. 16 No. 2, pp. 119-140. https://doi.org/10.1108/01443579610109884
Publisher
:MCB UP Ltd
Copyright © 1996, MCB UP Limited