An empirical investigation of the contribution of strategic sourcing to manufacturing flexibilities

Companies are increasingly turning to flexibility as a competitive strategy in uncertain market environments. Empirical studies of manufacturing flexibility have centered around the uses and advantages of advanced technology. Few studies have examined alternative ways of attaining flexibility objectives. This dissertation examined the role of strategic sourcing in achieving manufacturing flexibilities in an enterprise. Specifically, this research: (1) Investigated the impact of strategic sourcing on different dimensions of manufacturing flexibility; (2) Investigated the inter-relationships among different types of manufacturing flexibilities; (3) Investigated the impact of manufacturing flexibilities on different dimensions of manufacturing performance.;A conceptual framework of manufacturing flexibility, and its antecedents and outcomes, was proposed and tested, using empirical data. The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. The results of the data analysis suggest that strategic solacing can be a viable route to the development of mix and new product flexibilities. The findings also indicated synergies among different manufacturing flexibilities. Mix flexibility was observed to have a positive impact on modification flexibility, while modification flexibility was found to have a positive effect on new product flexibility. The data also indicated significant relationships between manufacturing flexibilities and manufacturing performance. Mix flexibility was found to positively influence cost reduction, manufacturing cycle time reduction, and delivery performance. New product flexibility was found to have a positive impact on new product introduction time and customization responsiveness performance.;The identification of a positive relationship between strategic sourcing and manufacturing flexibility makes a new and significant contribution to theory development in the sourcing and flexibility literature. The exploration of manufacturing flexibility inter-relationships addresses another gap in the flexibility literature. This research also clarifies the role of manufacturing flexibility in manufacturing and corporate strategy. For the practitioner, the research results provide direction on targeting specific manufacturing flexibilities with suitable supply base strategies. Finally, by examining definite relationships between manufacturing flexibilities and manufacturing performance(s), this research provides managerial insights on leveraging supply chain strategies for competitive advantage.