Small Manufacturer Long-Term Success Factors using Success Case Method: A Manufacturing Extension Practitioner Perspective

Abstract

This study examines the factors that contribute to the long-term sustainability of a small manufacturer from a manufacturing extension practitioner’s perspective. The longevity subject used in this study was XYZ Company, a 90-year-old, family-owned manufacturing organization. The findings are explored in an organizational learning theory context to provide change practitioners with a roadmap of recommended action based on an exemplary case study. Using Brinkerhoff’s success case methodology, the key factors for long-term success and the impact of change events were evaluated using a mixed-method approach. The initial quantitative survey determined which factors and events had the most extreme positive and negative cases. Individual participants were then interviewed from these success and nonsuccess cases to gain a deeper understanding of the individuals’ experiences. The study found that all the key factors previously identified for century club corporate longevity were extremely important to XYZ Company. An analysis using an artificial intelligence platform identified the following overarching themes: mission, continuous improvement, relationships, and learning. Furthermore, the study found that 13 of 14 of the change events had concrete positive impacts, with the top six most impactful events being lean principles, 5S training, lean certificate series, Kolbe workshop, and quality management system. These results are organized into a roadmap of events, which includes the related markers of progress toward a learning organization. This offers organizations and practitioners a guide to the key factors and the change events that have been found at a small manufacturing company approaching a century of successfully sustained operations.