The factors described in Chapter 3 can all be integrated into a systematic review of the make or buy requirements for a manufacturing business. The main stages of initial business appraisal, internal and external analysis, the generation and evaluation of options and the choice of an optimal strategy, have all been outlined. In order to assist a project team to work through these systematically, a more detailed breakdown is required. Each step will be introduced with a flow diagram to show the principal activities within it, and then described in working detail, with its objective, the approach to follow, and hints and tips from practical experience.

Chapter Contents:

• 4.1 Introduction
• Step 1: derive business Issues
• Step 2: data collection
• Step 3: develop ideal greenfield business scenario
• Step 4: product architecture definition
• Step 5: manufacturing technology definition
• Step 6: technology cost modelling
• Step 7: architecture/technology relationship
• Step 8: manufacturing technology assessment
• Step 9: product architecture assessment
• Step 10: decision support modelling
• Step 11: evaluate technology/subsystem/parts family options
• Step 12: develop strategy recommendations and implications

Inspec keywords: strategic planning; manufacturing industries; team working; project management

Other keywords: project team; internal analaysis; initial business appraisal; systematic review; make or buy requirements; flow diagram; practical approach; make or buy strategy; optimal strategy; external analysis; manufacturing business; principal activity

Subjects: Organisational aspects