Integrating technology and operations in a developing country context

Ian Hipkin, David Bennett

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Published conference outputConference publication

    Abstract

    The importance of technology to developing countries is widely recognised as they compete internationally and develop internally. Firms acquire technology by different means and from diverse sources, and they possess varying levels of competence. Since countries are at various stages of economic and technological development, prescriptive approaches to technology and operations integration are not appropriate. The paper discusses factors in the literature that affect the integration of technology and operations in developing countries. Country similarities and differences also play a role, so the study examines three developing countries: Brazil, India and South Africa. These countries are emerging from periods of regulation and have developed certain sectors of their economies. Empirical evidence is provided from a study of managers in South Africa who were asked to assess the important factors in
    technology integration, and to score the extent to which they can control these. Results from the study concur with the literature regarding the importance of a country’s political stability and its policies towards new investment and infrastructure. Knowledge and understanding of technology are essential for successful integration in countries with insufficient skilled personnel, and where education levels are low.
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationOperations management and the new economy
    Subtitle of host publicationproceedings of 9th international European Operations Management Conference
    EditorsJohn K. Christiansen, Harry Boer
    Pages697-707
    Number of pages11
    Volume1
    Publication statusPublished - 2002
    Event9th international conference of the European Operations Management Association - Copenhagen, Denmark
    Duration: 2 Jun 20024 Jun 2002

    Conference

    Conference9th international conference of the European Operations Management Association
    Abbreviated titleEurOMA 2002
    Country/TerritoryDenmark
    CityCopenhagen
    Period2/06/024/06/02

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