Performance measurement of AMT: a cross‐regional study

Abstract

Purpose To examine the relationship of performance in advanced manufacturing technologies (AMT) to the levels of AMT investments and planning and implementation activities in two regions of America: Anglo‐Saxon (USA and Canada) and Hispanic (Mexico and Costa Rica). Design/methodology/approach Survey methodology was employed to collect data. The instrument was translated into Spanish for administration in the Hispanic region. Exploratory factor analysis was used to establish discriminant validity of the constructs under investigation. Through multiple regression analysis, predictors for two types of performance (organizational and operational) were examined. Findings Both types of performance are reasonably predicted by the AMT investment and planning and implementation factors. Performance predictors are different between the two regions. Research limitations/implications There are limitations common to survey research (e.g. subjective perceptions and respondent bias). Also, results depart from the literature in terms of the predictors for operational and organizational performance. This can be due to other complex relationships among the variables not identifiable by regression analysis. Future work should address this by using more sophisticated statistical tools such as structural equation modeling. Originality/value The study can help managers understand the factors leading to a successful AMT implementation. This is one of the first studies on AMT in developing countries; and as such, it should encourage more research in these countries.