Conclusion

Every manufacturing project has its own unique set of dependent and independent variables framing the strategy of its realization. Certainly those projects suited for China manufacture are a small subset of the enormous volume of manufacturing activity in the West. For companies considering China outsourcing, this Paper offers some "what to do right now" pointers, but, more importantly, attempts to show some longer term strategies, and their common characteristics, emerging among North American and Far Eastern Global players. One consensus among a growing number of these companies is that control of "customer culture", as expressed through their products' design, is a critical factor in their enterprise's ability to survive in a commodity-rich, price-competitive marketplace.




The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author only and do not represent the views of the Techman/Kanata or of any of its directors, officers or employees. The author, Scott Gibson, can be reached at scott@gibsonproduct.com