Drivers and Barriers for Implementing Advanced Manufacturing Technology in China's Furniture Industry: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Results of this exploratory study provide insights into the implementation of advanced manufacturing technology (AMT) in China's furniture industry by using a multiple-case study approach. Qualitative interviews were conducted with upper managers and specialists in production and human resource management from four Chinese furniture firms that are viewed as pioneers in implementing computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM) in China's furniture industry. The findings show that key drivers for implementing AMT in the Chinese furniture firms are problems in production process, the need to reduce dependence on employees' work skills, and difficulties in recruitment arising from increased labor costs and a shortage of skilled workers. In addition, findings of the study reveal that the barriers to AMT implementation in Chinese furniture firms are not only from the technology side but also due to nontechnological aspects. These results could help decision makers in conducting process innovation with regard to both technological and nontechnological aspects, as well as in taking their interactions into account. Moreover, our findings may also help forest products industries in other emerging countries that are moving toward introducing new working systems.