Title: The automotive and electronics industries: processes and management of change

Authors: N.C. Clifton, A. Hopkins, P. Jones, D.G. Pickernell

Addresses: The Centre for Advanced Studies, Cardiff University, 44-45 Park Place, Cardiff, CF10 1BB, UK. The Centre for Advanced Studies, Cardiff University, 44-45 Park Place, Cardiff, CF10 1BB, UK. The Centre for Advanced Studies, Cardiff University, 44-45 Park Place, Cardiff, CF10 1BB, UK. The Centre for Advanced Studies, Cardiff University, 44-45 Park Place, Cardiff, CF10 1BB, UK. The Welsh Enterprise Institute, Business School, University of Glamorgan, Pontypridd, CF37 1DL

Abstract: The automotive and electronics industries of the UK have seen dramatic changes over the past two decades, reflected in cultural change by the organisations within them. This paper examines issues surrounding two case studies of firms in the electronics and automotive components sectors of South Wales, who are attempting to change their organisational cultures in order to maximise the benefits of new working practices. One of these companies adopts a slower, incremental approach to change, whilst the other favours a more radical, rapid change. The case studies illustrate the different approaches to change that are possible, as well as the problems and benefits of such change. They also indicate the potential usefulness of external sources of expertise and information, such as management recruitment and benchmarking exercises.

Keywords: organisational culture; change management strategies; automotive and electronics industries.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMDM.2002.001226

International Journal of Management and Decision Making, 2002 Vol.3 No.1, pp.35-51

Published online: 01 Jul 2003 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article