Manufacturing technology and equipment enable and also limit how manufacturing firms can design and manufacture their products. Therefore, core manufacturing technologies are strategic choices affecting the manufacturing capabilities of the manufacturing firm. Manufacturing firms may need to renew their core manufacturing technology to introduce next-generation products, novel features and performance or utilise new kind of raw materials.
New manufacturing technologies are complex for successful development, implementation and capturing the full benefits. These projects typically suffer from delays, rework, budget overruns and difficulties in getting the full benefits of the new technology. A deeper understanding of the successful management of RMTI projects is needed.
“Much of the development of the manufacturing technology happens outside manufacturing firms, but the introduction of RMTI in their core production is an innovation process by itself,” Pooja Chaoji says.
Instead of complementing the technology-focused perspective on advances and innovations in manufacturing technologies, this dissertation takes a key perspective of the manufacturing firms to understand how and through what kinds of processes and practices manufacturing firms successfully manage the emergence and implementation of necessary manufacturing technology innovations.
Comprehensive process models are needed for implementation
In her research, Chaoji presents comprehensive process models for the initiation and management of RMTIs, involving different levels of the novelty of technology. These models cover both the process and equipment innovations needed to implement the RMTI. The technology novelty for equipment supplier firms and the related uncertainties in the creation of the RMTI are illustrated with a four-dimensional construct on the technology novelty of equipment suppliers. The dissertation specifies a framework for alternative idea and information search practices for managers using autonomous and directed search modes, internal and external search spaces, and involving open or closed search for suitable equipment supplier.
“As innovations, RMTIs involve a wider scope than merely buying and adopting technology. Technology is a part of the innovation solution and not the overall solution in itself. The frameworks presented guide the (pro)active initiative and holistic planning of the managers of manufacturing firms for creating radical innovations in their core production processes,” Chaoji says.
Public defence on Friday 18 August
The doctoral dissertation of MSc Pooja Chaoji in the field of industrial engineering and management titled Manufacturing firms’ processes and practices for creating radical manufacturing technology innovations will be publicly examined at the Faculty of Management and Business at Tampere University at 12:00, on Friday 18 August 2023 on the Hervanta campus, Festia building, Pieni sali 1 (Korkeakoulunkatu 8, Tampere). The Opponent will be Professor Johan Frishammar, Luleå University of Technology. The Custos will be Professor Miia Martinsuo, Tampere University.
The doctoral dissertation is available online.
The public defence can be followed via remote connection.
Illustration: Jonne Renvall/Tampere University