| Through the use of extensive field research and an original international questionnaire, the main sources of the leapfrogging development of the Japanese machine-tool industry in the past 19 years were investigated. Past studies have emphasized the strategic R&D alliance with superlative computerized numerical control (CNC) makers, the extensive use of outsourcing from excellent precision parts suppliers, and the extraordinary development of automakers. This paper critically considered these factors and verified their inadequacy in explaining the further development of this industry in the 1990s. Hence, attention was paid to the significant roles of intrafirm factors such as: (a) the simultaneous and cross-functional information sharing system at an... |
