Measuring agility as a performance outcome

Purpose – The purpose of this research was to construct a quantitative, objective metric for agility performance that assesses agility as a performance outcome, capturing both organizational success and environmental turbulence, and applicable to manufacturing organizations of all types.Design/methodology/approach – The agility performance metric was developed by creating a theoretical model and then operationalizing the model through literature review, case studies, and pilot survey data. It was subsequently refined, based on input from an expert panel and survey responses.Findings – The agility performance metric is demonstrated using data from four manufacturing plants, which represent the four possible combinations of success and turbulence.Research limitations/implications – The agility metric developed is consistent with the theoretical model, as well as empirical evidence from the demonstration companies. Further validation of the metric is necessary to fully establish this approach as a valid and ...

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