Towards theory building in manufacturing flexibility

This study consolidates and extends previous research to propose a theoretical framework of manufacturing flexibility. The framework proposes antecedent roles for manufacturing flexibilities in supporting a range of agility-related manufacturing priorities; suggests how such manufacturing flexibilities can be developed; and relates the effects of alignment between flexibility-facilitated manufacturing outcomes and business strategy on firm performance. A questionnaire was administered to 1700 senior level managers in manufacturing firms, with 322 valid surveys returned for data analysis. The results support the framework, and suggest that different manufacturing priorities can be facilitated through the development of specific manufacturing flexibilities. The results also indicate that these manufacturing flexibilities can be acquired through the development of purchasing competence in a firm. The data provide partial support for a relationship between congruity in manufacturing and business goals, and firm performance.