Just‐in‐time implementation in the Scottish electronics industry

Abstract

Central Scotland has been successful in replacing many of its traditional industries with a network of over 300 electronics manufacturers and suppliers creating the area popularly known as “Silicon Glen”. Silicon Glen appears to be a very suitable site for the implementation of just‐in‐time (JIT) production systems with both electronics manufacturers and suppliers concentrated in the same geographical area. Contrasts the theory and practice of JIT implementation in “Silicon Glen” and assesses its success in six companies currently operating JIT production systems. The main conclusion is that JIT has been implemented in a variety of forms, with companies selecting the aspects of JIT that are most suitable for their manufacturing process and competitive strategy. JIT is proving highly successful and is bringing substantial gains in quality and efficiency.