Abstract This paper seeks to extend existing manufacturing system concepts and develop new structured knowledge about international manufacturing networks by analysing the networks, classifying the configurations and identifying the capabilities. The design and operation of international manufacturing networks is an increasingly important issue for transnational corporations faced with rapid changes in global market opportunity, competition and new managerial mechanisms. Four international manufacturing networks in mechanical and process industries are analysed and a number of conclusions drawn: first, a novel configuration map is proposed; second, key strategic capability parameters are identified; third, networking trends and their implications for configuration are discussed. Finally, the paper explores strengths and weaknesses of the particular methodology adopted in this research.
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