Revisiting manufacturing strategy: contributions towards a new construct

Abstract

This paper aims at revisiting and systematizing the literature on manufacturing strategy. Although this is a well consolidated theme broadly discussed in the last fifty years, manufacturing strategy practice grew on importance recently due to a more competitive environment the companies find themselves in. The review carried has systematized the existing literature into six lines of research dealing with competitive priorities, structural and infrastructural decision, best practices, performance indicators, production strategy formulation and generic manufacturing strategies. This article shows that four out of the six research areas are still receiving attention. A new construct which represents a global view of the lines of research mentioned is proposed. Gaps in the research field and suggestions for future works are described. Keywords: manufacturing strategy, content, formulation of manufacturing strategy, competitive priorities, best practices, performance indicators.