Despite abundant information describing the advantages that accrue from successful implementation of world class manufacturing (WCM) best practices, p Show moreDespite abundant information describing the advantages that accrue from successful implementation of world class manufacturing (WCM) best practices, previous research provides little insight as to why the same techniques are able to foster competitiveness at one site yet fail to do so in another. Practitioners maintain that such discrepancies are due to contextual factors that preclude even immanently rational improvements from manifesting themselves in their operations. General purpose technology (GPT) theory suggests that heterogeneity results from innovational complementarities needed to fully benefit from the routine use of WCM practices. This exploratory study provides empirical support for complementary organizational changes, whereas it is unable to substantiate the contention that exogenous factors account for cross-factory differences. The implication for managers lies in identifying just in time production as a general purpose practice (GPP), suggesting that even though the direct impact may be substantial, it represents only a part and not necessarily the most important part, of its potential contribution towards overall performance. Show less
