Lean production represents a major challenge for German industries' distinctive model of Diversified Quality Production (DQP). This study looks at how German manufacturers are responding to the challenge, in a particular sector, namely pump manufacturing, where Germany has long been dominant. The study compares 18 German pump manufacturers with a closely matched set of US firms, focusing on product and process innovations. Variations in the rate and success of innovations are traced to differences in two key factors: national institutions and product markets. © 1997 Carfax Publishing Ltd.
Author Keywords
Index Keywords