New production models: a strategic view

In spite of the recognized crisis of the Fordist production paradigm, the emerging paradigm has not yet been clearly defined but only interpreted by several 'production models' (Lean Production, World-Class Manufacturing, etc.). Furthermore, these are rarely considered as linked to both the corporate and manufacturing strategies. An effort is made here to link the traditional and emergent 'strategic management' dictates and then to interpret the contents of manufacturing strategy. Because of this framework, a collocation of the various production models is proposed. In particular, these production models—in the ambit of 'operations management'—can be seen as different emphases on the main constituent elements of a framework that seeks to unify traditional and emergent 'strategic management' dictates.