Title: Towards a framework supporting the management of product boundaries: a study of the new situation experienced by Ericsson Mobile Platforms

Authors: Ola M. Dawidson, Martin G. Karlsson

Addresses: Department of Operations Management and Work Organization, Chalmers University of Technology, SE-412 96, Goteborg, Sweden. ' Department of Operations Management and Work Organization, Chalmers University of Technology, SE-412 96, Goteborg, Sweden

Abstract: This paper deals with companies within industries where the value-chains have changed as a consequence of product maturity and competition on the market. In order to support managers in their decisions regarding the position in the changed value-chain and where to place the new product boundaries, the paper elaborates on a framework of important dimensions to take into consideration. The results are based on a case study of the new situation experienced by Ericsson Mobile Platforms. Beside the description of the new situation, the main contribution of the paper is a proposed framework, consisting of six dimensions, guiding managers in taking more rational decisions.

Keywords: product boundary management; value chain management; product platform management; value chain decision; Ericsson Mobile Platforms; mobile communications.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMC.2005.005874

International Journal of Mobile Communications, 2005 Vol.3 No.1, pp.49 - 65

Published online: 23 Dec 2004 *

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