Implementing team-based cells in Australia: A configurational process approach

Considers the Smart Manufacturing Techniques project designed to implement team-based manufacturing cells in participating Australian companies. Draws on case studies of the three participating groups to explore the nature of socio-technical implementation processes. Argues that an improved understanding of socio-technical systems is needed, and that action research is the best method to do that. Concludes by presenting a configuration process model and applies this to show how it can illuminate the implementation of team-based cells in the three case study companies.