Title: Proposing and analysing a model for the influence of outsourcing on organisational agility with a case study in a manufacturing company

Authors: Arash Shahin; Mahmoud Ahmadi Azar

Addresses: Department of Management, University of Isfahan, Hezarjarib St., 81746-73441, Isfahan, Iran. ' Department of Management, University of Isfahan, Hezarjarib St., 81746-73441, Isfahan, Iran

Abstract: In this paper an attempt has been made to find how outsourcing of activities influences agility of organisations. After reviewing the literature, a conceptual model has been proposed, which indicates the relationships between the two subjects. Based on the proposed model, a questionnaire has been designed and utilised in Kurdistan Tractor Manufacturing Company. Correlation analysis has been conducted and the results reveal that the variables of outsourcing, i.e., cost effectiveness, downsizing, focus on main activities, and job specialisations have direct influence on organisational agility. The findings support the proposed model.

Keywords: outsourcing; organisational agility; agile organisations; competitive advantage; dimensions; variables; manufacturing industry; tractor manufacturing.

DOI: 10.1504/IJLSM.2013.051020

International Journal of Logistics Systems and Management, 2013 Vol.14 No.1, pp.55 - 72

Published online: 31 May 2013 *

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