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  • November 1991 (Revised June 1997)
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Micom Caribe (A)

By: David M. Upton and Joshua D. Margolis
  • Format:Print
  • | Pages:20
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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

Citation

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

Joshua D. Margolis

Organizational Behavior
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  • Darden Restaurants: The Nine Square Feet By: Joshua D. Margolis and James Barnett
  • Is This the Right C-Suite Role? By: Anne Donnellon, Joshua D. Margolis and Amy Gallo
  • Nayana Mawilmada: Transforming Urban Development in Sri Lanka By: Joshua D. Margolis and Mahima Rao-Kachroo
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