Automatix, Inc.: Modular design and supply chain strategy
In the early 1990s Automatix, Inc., “reinvented” its product creation process in a way that radically increased the company’s speed in bringing new products to market. Adopting a modular approach to creating its product and process architectures, Automatix was able to cut development time in half and to use its new “fast cycle” development capability to drive new product strategies and achieve market leadership. The case addresses the interactions of technical, marketing, and operations staff in defining the company’s new modular way of working.
Early 1990s
Cranfield University
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Harvard Business School Publishing
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NUCB Business School
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Case reference: IMD-7-2636 ©2025
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