Globally Distributed Engineering Processes: Making the Distinction between Engineer-to-order and Make-to-order

Abstract

This paper explores how the organizational and technological requirements of globally distributed engineering processes differ for make-to- order (MTO) and engineer-to-order (ETO) production and highlights potential research themes which might contribute to a better understanding of this field. The preliminary results presented in this paper are based on a literature review and an on-going exploratory case study with manufacturers from the mechanical engineering sector, responsible for the engineering of both MTO and ETO products in a global setting. We propose a preliminary framework to identify and structure the different requirements ETO and MTO products pose for globally distributed engineering processes. We hope to stimulate further research through emphasizing the main research gaps within this field.