Strategic Implications of the Service Factory for Small Manufacturers

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Lin, Binshan | Vassar, John A. | Martin, Christopher L.

Affiliations: Department of Management & Marketing, College of Business Administration, Louisiana State University in Shreveport, One University Place, Shreveport, Louisiana 71115, USA. Tel: + 1 318 797 5186

Abstract: All small manufacturers compete through operations, yet there is a dearth of practical approaches that can be used to facilitate the strategic task. This paper argues that the adoption of a service factory orientation will give the small manufacturer a competitive advantage. A strategic perspective of the service operation is discussed and three significant implications of the service factory for small manufacturing managers are offered: (1) the service factory is strategic in nature, (2) the strategic advantages of the service factory should be addressed, and (3) the dimensions and attributes of the service factory should be considered along with their impact on the firm. Finally, a set of guidelines is offered to facilitate the implementation of the service factory concept.

Keywords: Manufacturing strategy, services, service operations, service factory

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-1995-14305

Journal: Human Systems Management, vol. 14, no. 3, pp. 219-226, 1995