This dissertation develops a theory of product-based competition which provides a comprehensive conceptualization of organization/environment interaction in the context of multi-product manufacturing firms. In particular, it achieves three goals. First, it creates a dynamic theory which integrates product design, product manufacturing, and firm strategy. Second, it develops a methodology for calculating real measures of a firm's manufacturing and design flexibility from the components that are used to create products. Third, it tests the assertion that firm performance is a function of the goodness of fit achieved between market uncertainty and compensating strategic flexibility.
Business Administration, General, Business Administration, Marketing, Business Administration, Management
University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign
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University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign