Case | HBS Case Collection | November 1991 (Revised June 1997)

Micom Caribe (A)

by David M. Upton and Joshua D. Margolis

Abstract

Describes the Puerto Rican manufacturing plant of a transnational company. The award-winning plant has dramatically improved the quality of flexibility of its operations, by taking a radical approach to manufacturing. The methods center on the use of specific techniques along with a building of trust with the workforce. This generates broad participation and creates a strong commitment to continuous improvement throughout the plant. In 1987, the plant was held responsible for quality problems which marred the launch of an important product. Four years later, a new product is to be launched and the plant must develop a plan to ensure that this launch is a success, as well as develop a strategy for the future. Examines, in detail, the development of a manufacturing infrastructure for quality and flexibility and introduces students to the challenges of managing manufacturing in a transnational environment.

Keywords: Business Plan; Multinational Firms and Management; Management Analysis, Tools, and Techniques; Product Launch; Production; Performance Improvement; Quality; Strategy; Manufacturing Industry;

Format: Print 20 pages EducatorsPurchase

Citation:

Upton, David M., and Joshua D. Margolis. "Micom Caribe (A)." Harvard Business School Case 692-002, November 1991. (Revised June 1997.)

About the Author

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Joshua D. Margolis
James Dinan and Elizabeth Miller Professor of Business Administration
Unit Head, Organizational Behavior
Chair, Program for Leadership Development
Organizational Behavior

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