Advanced manufacturing technology implementation in small and mediums size enterprises in a newly industrializing country: the case of Turkey

Abstract

This paper focuses on small and medium size enterprises (SMEs) in Turkey's manufacturing sector and examines recent changes in levels of advanced manufacturing technology (AMT) implementation, looks at the success of implementation and links current levels of AMT to the competitiveness of the market environment that the firm faces. A wide range of technologies is usually included under the banner of AMT. The technologies, which are cited as AMTs comprise management approaches, techniques and philosophies as well as computerised technologies. By taking into account criteria such as company size and market share, and including companies operating in different sectors and cities of the country, an initial sample of 600 companies was identified by selecting 30 companies at random from 20 different cities.