Pattern of manufacturing strategy implementation and implications on manufacturing levers and manufacturing outputs and business performance

The strategic implementation of manufacturing improves competence of manufacturing function (Lawson, 2002) and develops capability in different areas of manufacturing system or levers or decisions such as human resource, production planning and control, organisation structure and control, process technology, sourcing and facilities. This study explores the manufacturing strategy implementation (MSI) in Indian product packaging industry (IPPMC) using three constructs namely manufacturing as competitive force, functional integration of manufacturing, strategic planning and communication. The recognition of manufacturing competency can be judged through improvement in the manufacturing output and business performance. This research proposes a comprehensive framework for linking and exploring the pattern of MSI, differences in manufacturing decisions/levers, manufacturing outputs and business performance of a firm. This is achieved by classifying the plants in four groups based on the increasing level of manufacturing strategy implementation using cluster analysis. The paper also highlights managerial implications, limitations and future scope of research.