The diffusion dynamics of advanced manufacturing technology (AMT) in the supply chain - a research framework

摘要

This paper identifies some of the gaps for research in AMT following a review of the literature. It puts together a framework for the successful diffusion of AMT in the supply chain, an area of scant research. A total systems perspective is taken which examines important central and supporting issues pertinent to the successful implementation of AMT. Technological maturity encompassing learning are central to AMT diffusion. Supporting factors such as supply chain management, extended enterprise and knowledge-based systems are included to aid the process of AMT deployment. Within these streams, subsets emerge which further the understanding of the framework at a much-detailed level. A conceptual model is first developed encapsulating the identified gaps and linking supply chain structure, maturity stages, performance measures and finally learning and diffusion of technology. A further refinement of this model for learning and diffusion generates a mapping of technological knowledge across the entire chain. The research therefore presents a framework to enable the empirical testing and validating of these models.