An integrated evaluation of facility location, capacity acquisition, and technology selection for designing global manufacturing strategies

Abstract

Emergence of global markets enhanced the emergence of global firms which have plants in different countries and implement an integrated management style. Due to the intensive competition in global markets, manufacturing performance is conceived as an important strategic weapon. Facility location, capacity acquisition and technology selection decisions constitute means to implement manufacturing strategies. We review the literature in order to contribute to a better understanding of global manufacturing strategies. As a result we observe that an integrated analysis of the location, capacity and technology decisions is vital for the design of effective global manufacturing strategies.