The relationship among modularity, functional coordination, and mass customization

Sohel Ahmad, Roger G. Schroeder and Debasish N. Mallick

European Journal of Innovation Management, 2010, vol. 13, issue 1, 46-61

Abstract: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to investigate how product modularity (PM) is related to mass customization (MC) capability and plant competitiveness. Design/methodology/approach - The paper tests hypothesized relationships using structural equation modeling with an international dataset. Findings - PM is not directly related to plant competitiveness. Inter‐functional design coordination (IDC) is found to be critical in fostering plant competitiveness. Practical implications - Managers need to put IDC mechanisms in place to foster MC capabilities and, thereby, enhance plant competitiveness. Originality/value - While the existing literature mostly argues for a direct relationship between PM and competitiveness, the paper shows that IDC and MC capability are crucial intervening variables in this relationship.

Keywords: Product specification; Design management; Mass customization; Plant efficiency; Competitive strategy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2010
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eme:ejimpp:14601061011013221

DOI: 10.1108/14601061011013221

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