eBusiness Research Lunch Seminars
NE20-336 (3 Cambridge Center)
Wednesday, December 5th, 12-1:30 pm
Lunch Provided
Ali Yassine and Professor Thomas Roemer
Impact of Information Technologies on Product Customization

Abstract

Realizing the delivery of customized products and services is just a click away. At least, this is the ultimate dream of both organizations and consumers. It is also the main focus of this presentation.

Information Technology (IT), particularly the level of integrating IT Architectures throughout Supply Chains ("IT Connectedness") are generally considered to be crucial factors to realizing this goal. IT Connectedness however, can range from simple B2B & B2C transactional exchanges to complex systems that allow high levels of collaboration such as shared CAD/CAM systems and concurrent engineering approaches across multiple institutional and geographical boarders. However, it is not yet fully understood, to what extent IT Connectedness does indeed facilitate customization, nor what particular types of IT Connectedness are well suited to enhance customization.

Moreover, customization itself is not well defined and can take on a whole range of meanings. Focusing on the automotive industry, we discuss different levels and types of customization, relevant to this industry. For the established customization types, we discuss how IT-Connectedness may impact their realization and outline several conceptual models as possible research avenues to study this impact.

For access to presentation materials, please visit the Sponsors Only section.

Students may request materials from Robynne DeCaprio at <decaprio@mit.edu>

Calendar for Fall Lunch seminars