Lin, Yong ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7118-2946, Ma, Shihua and Zhou, Li ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7132-5935 (2012) Manufacturing strategies for time based competitive advantages. Industrial Management & Data Systems, 112 (5). pp. 729-747. ISSN 0263-5577 (doi:10.1108/02635571211232299)

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Abstract

Purpose – The main purpose of this paper is to investigate the current manufacturing strategies and practices of bus manufacturers in China, and to propose a framework of manufacturing strategies for time-based competitive advantages.
Design/methodology/approach – The conceptual research framework is devised from a review of the literature, and case studies are used to investigate the manufacturing strategies and practices in place in the case companies. Data is collected through semi-structured interviews and secondary documentation.
Findings – The results show that, with over-capacity in the Chinese bus manufacturing industry, success is no longer determined by high productivity or low price; a quick response to the customers' tailored demands is essential in a climate of fierce competition. The suggested best practices for time-based competitive advantages comprise building technical centers and post-doctoral research stations, applying modularity logic, adopting RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), and optimizing processes by, for example, involving customers and integrating inbound and outbound logistics.
Research limitations/implications – The research results are limited within the context of the bus manufacturing industry in China.
Practical implications – The research results help both the practitioners and the researchers gain a better understanding of the practices of Chinese bus manufacturers from the perspective of time-based competitive advantage. The proposed strategies and best practices have the potential to improve the manufacturing performance of this type of manufacturer.
Originality/value – This paper shows the big picture of manufacturing strategy and practice of bus manufacturers in the Chinese automobile industry. Furthermore it presents a manufacturing strategy framework with best practice guidance to gain a time-based competitive advantage.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	manufacturing strategy, competitive capability, time-based competition, mass customization, China
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD28 Management. Industrial Management
Faculty / School / Research Centre / Research Group:	Faculty of Business > Department of Systems Management & Strategy Faculty of Business > Networks and Urban Systems Centre (NUSC) > Supply Chain Management Research Group
Related URLs:	Publisher
Last Modified:	26 Oct 2016 14:54
URI:	http://gala.gre.ac.uk/id/eprint/7286

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