Bublu Thakur-Weigold | Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) (original) (raw)

Papers by Bublu Thakur-Weigold

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Production and operations management, Apr 23, 2024

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Logistics Innovation, 2011

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Frontiers in Public Health

ObjectivesThe design of the supply chain determines how effectively any vaccination campaign can ... more ObjectivesThe design of the supply chain determines how effectively any vaccination campaign can be operated. This case study of Switzerland's vaccine supply chain compares its design with public health objectives. It maps the vaccine supply chain in Switzerland as it was set up to handle the first shipments of Covid-19 vaccine in 2021 to enable a more holistic view of supply and demand flows. Recommendations are made to improve emergency logistics of vaccines in the future.MethodsTwenty-six semi-structured interviews with international and Swiss stake-holders were coded and analyzed to arrive at a description of planning and distribution processes. The vaccine supply chain network structure was mapped, linking upstream and downstream flows of material and information. The visualization of nodes and flows was combined with spatial information, including population data. The results are summarized in narrative form to support decision-makers across disciplines.ResultsDespite adeq...

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Cílem této disertační práce je překlenout mezery ve studiu globalizace shrnutím přístupu ke globá... more Cílem této disertační práce je překlenout mezery ve studiu globalizace shrnutím přístupu ke globálním hodnotovým řetězcům napříč ekonomií, geografií, sociologií, mezinárodním obchodem a operačním řízením. Práce se jasně profiluje v rámci studí Evropské ekonomické integrace, které se literatura v oblasti globálních řetězců dosud dostatečně nevěnovala. K odhalení možností ohledně tvorby přidané hodnoty a souvisejících politik práce srovnává dvě zásadně odlišné a přesto srovnatelné země hluboce integrované v hodnotových řetězcích: Českou republiku a Švýcarsko. Stanovuje si při tom dva cíle: Jak země a firmy soupeří v globálním prostředí? a 2. Jaké strategie mohou změnit tvar smile křivky země a odvětví k lepšímu?The objective of this dissertation is to bridge the gaps in globalization studies by summarizing the body of global value chains (GVC) knowledge across Economics, Geography, Sociology, International Business (IB), and Operations Management. The study positions itself firmly wit...

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International Journal of Emerging Markets

Purpose Medical technology (MedTech) is a growth industry, which like other manufacturing sectors... more Purpose Medical technology (MedTech) is a growth industry, which like other manufacturing sectors has undergone fragmentation of production and emergence of Global Value Chains (GVCs). The purpose of this paper is to compare how two open European economies position themselves competitively within MedTech GVCs: highly developed Switzerland and the emerging Czech Republic. Design/methodology/approach The research applies a mixed methodology to analyze the performance of each location in the MedTech GVCs. It draws on macroeconomic, industry, trade and a proprietary sample of firm data, combined with onsite interviews. Findings The economic outcomes and GVC positions differ in both cases, whereas Switzerland focuses on high value-added activities such as R&D and after-sales service. Specialized manufacturing is also located here in spite of high costs. By contrast, the Czech Republic focuses mostly on low value-added activities, like manufacturing disposables, although some domestic inn...

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Production Planning & Control

Abstract The growing number of large-scale relief operations and humanitarian aid initiatives is ... more Abstract The growing number of large-scale relief operations and humanitarian aid initiatives is stretching the resources – financial, material and human – of humanitarian actors to their limits. Challenges to collaborate both within international humanitarian organizations, and among their direct and indirect supply chain partners often contribute to the inefficient use of resources, or ineffective operations. In this research, we discuss collaboration in humanitarian supply chains, and analyze causes of their dysfunctional operations. Furthermore, we develop an experiential learning approach that can sensitize humanitarian supply chain actors to causes of information distortion. The simulation approach was implemented in the field and instructional design cycles yielded insights into how staff apply their learnings under the specific conditions of humanitarian relief work.

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Applied Optimization, 2005

Current surveys reveal that the practice of Supply Chain Management has had little impact upon bu... more Current surveys reveal that the practice of Supply Chain Management has had little impact upon business performance. This opportunity loss stands in stark contrast to the wealth of knowledge, and volumes of materials available to both researchers and practitioners alike. The dissemination of Supply Chain Management theory, from its roots in Operations Research to its application in business operations, is

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Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals Cases

When established markets in the West are stagnating or in crisis, companies increasingly look to ... more When established markets in the West are stagnating or in crisis, companies increasingly look to emerging markets, especially the so-called BRICs, for growth potential. However, these new markets also pose unique challenges, for which the best practices and assumptions of Western managers are not automatically suited. Setting up supply chains in new regions confronts firms with multiple challenges in terms of regulation, resources, culture, and infrastructure. In this case study, students will accompany a successful German FMCG manager as he plans his company’s expansion into Russia, and is forced to look at the opportunities and challenges from a new perspective.

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The international division of labor and vertical specialization represented by Global Value Chain... more The international division of labor and vertical specialization represented by Global Value Chains or GVCs have redefined global trade. The phenomenon has been studied by multiple disciplines, including economists, geographers, sociologists, and historians. This article synthesizes various lines of inquiry, and notes their respective assumptions. IB research on GVCs continues to focus on Multinational Enterprises or MNEs, assuming that they exert control over the network through buying power and superior knowledge. Structure and governance are, however, not necessarily destiny in a GVC. Porter’s original definition of the Value Chain stated that competitive strategies manage not just local costs, but the linkages between dependent nodes. Two Swiss firms illustrate how small suppliers can be successful within GVCs by managing network effects. We conclude with the implication of new business models and strategies on IB research and practice.

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The Humanitarian Leader

The challenges of humanitarian leadership are well-studied by the social sciences. However, there... more The challenges of humanitarian leadership are well-studied by the social sciences. However, there is untapped potential in applying private sector management principles and best practices to humanitarian work. Some non- profit organisations have fruitful experience applying Lean Management, an innovative management system developed by Toyota, which is not just about manufacturing better cars or improving industrial processes. Lean focuses the organisation on providing more value to its customers which, in the case of the humanitarian sector, are its beneficiaries. Our panel shared their experience of using Lean Management to address common issues in humanitarian operations. Their stories demonstrate the potential of Lean to transform work and relationships by devolving power to lower-level workers and partners. By empowering staff and local entities, it also improves relationships, collaboration, and ultimately the outcomes of humanitarian missions.

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Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management

PurposeThis paper explores growth opportunities for a contract manufacturer (CM), which operates ... more PurposeThis paper explores growth opportunities for a contract manufacturer (CM), which operates a global virtual manufacturing network (GVMN). The Swiss factory should play a profitable role in the holding's competitive strategy, in spite of lower-cost alternatives within its network.Design/methodology/approachThe study applied a design science method over a period of two years of collaboration with the partner firm to complete three iterations of solution incubation and refinement.FindingsThe design artefact is a growth strategy for a CM with independently-managed, heterogeneous sites. A novel capability mapping tool reveals competitive advantage by deploying the GVMN as an order fulfilment system. Engineering and sales are integrated with production to project higher revenue streams in multiple locations including Switzerland.Research limitations/implicationsThe research expands the operations management (OM) focus on optimization and continuous improvement. Results indicate ...

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Production Planning & Control

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Emerald Emerging Markets Case Studies

Learning outcomes Upon completion of this case study, students will have learned to identify and ... more Learning outcomes Upon completion of this case study, students will have learned to identify and analyze pending organizational failure, based upon company data. They will have formulated a business strategy (either cost leadership, differentiation or focus), as well as propose process improvements to cope with changing macroeconomic factors, costs, supplier conditions, and especially talent management and retention. Students will practice the logical organization of information, articulating the key facts and assumptions underlying their solutions. They will practice communicating with a possibly hostile executive team, to whom they defend their proposal based on its merits. Case overview/synopsis This case recounts the recent history of the XT Beauty, a fictionalized but real company headquartered in Moscow, selling professional cosmetics, electrical instruments and equipment for beauty salons in St. Petersburg, and other cities in Russia. XT Beauty enjoyed successful growth until...

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Emerald Emerging Markets Case Studies

Learning outcomes Upon completion of this case study, students will have learned to identify and ... more Learning outcomes Upon completion of this case study, students will have learned to identify and analyze pending organizational failure, based upon company data. They will have formulated a business strategy (either cost leadership, differentiation or focus), as well as propose process improvements to cope with changing macroeconomic factors, costs, supplier conditions, and especially talent management and retention. Students will practice the logical organization of information, articulating the key facts and assumptions underlying their solutions. They will practice communicating with a possibly hostile executive team, to whom they defend their proposal based on its merits. Case overview/synopsis This case recounts the recent history of the XT Beauty, a fictionalized but real company headquartered in Moscow, selling professional cosmetics, electrical instruments and equipment for beauty salons in St. Petersburg, and other cities in Russia. XT Beauty enjoyed successful growth until...

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Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Production and operations management, Apr 23, 2024

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Logistics Innovation, 2011

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Frontiers in Public Health

ObjectivesThe design of the supply chain determines how effectively any vaccination campaign can ... more ObjectivesThe design of the supply chain determines how effectively any vaccination campaign can be operated. This case study of Switzerland's vaccine supply chain compares its design with public health objectives. It maps the vaccine supply chain in Switzerland as it was set up to handle the first shipments of Covid-19 vaccine in 2021 to enable a more holistic view of supply and demand flows. Recommendations are made to improve emergency logistics of vaccines in the future.MethodsTwenty-six semi-structured interviews with international and Swiss stake-holders were coded and analyzed to arrive at a description of planning and distribution processes. The vaccine supply chain network structure was mapped, linking upstream and downstream flows of material and information. The visualization of nodes and flows was combined with spatial information, including population data. The results are summarized in narrative form to support decision-makers across disciplines.ResultsDespite adeq...

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Cílem této disertační práce je překlenout mezery ve studiu globalizace shrnutím přístupu ke globá... more Cílem této disertační práce je překlenout mezery ve studiu globalizace shrnutím přístupu ke globálním hodnotovým řetězcům napříč ekonomií, geografií, sociologií, mezinárodním obchodem a operačním řízením. Práce se jasně profiluje v rámci studí Evropské ekonomické integrace, které se literatura v oblasti globálních řetězců dosud dostatečně nevěnovala. K odhalení možností ohledně tvorby přidané hodnoty a souvisejících politik práce srovnává dvě zásadně odlišné a přesto srovnatelné země hluboce integrované v hodnotových řetězcích: Českou republiku a Švýcarsko. Stanovuje si při tom dva cíle: Jak země a firmy soupeří v globálním prostředí? a 2. Jaké strategie mohou změnit tvar smile křivky země a odvětví k lepšímu?The objective of this dissertation is to bridge the gaps in globalization studies by summarizing the body of global value chains (GVC) knowledge across Economics, Geography, Sociology, International Business (IB), and Operations Management. The study positions itself firmly wit...

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

International Journal of Emerging Markets

Purpose Medical technology (MedTech) is a growth industry, which like other manufacturing sectors... more Purpose Medical technology (MedTech) is a growth industry, which like other manufacturing sectors has undergone fragmentation of production and emergence of Global Value Chains (GVCs). The purpose of this paper is to compare how two open European economies position themselves competitively within MedTech GVCs: highly developed Switzerland and the emerging Czech Republic. Design/methodology/approach The research applies a mixed methodology to analyze the performance of each location in the MedTech GVCs. It draws on macroeconomic, industry, trade and a proprietary sample of firm data, combined with onsite interviews. Findings The economic outcomes and GVC positions differ in both cases, whereas Switzerland focuses on high value-added activities such as R&D and after-sales service. Specialized manufacturing is also located here in spite of high costs. By contrast, the Czech Republic focuses mostly on low value-added activities, like manufacturing disposables, although some domestic inn...

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Production Planning & Control

Abstract The growing number of large-scale relief operations and humanitarian aid initiatives is ... more Abstract The growing number of large-scale relief operations and humanitarian aid initiatives is stretching the resources – financial, material and human – of humanitarian actors to their limits. Challenges to collaborate both within international humanitarian organizations, and among their direct and indirect supply chain partners often contribute to the inefficient use of resources, or ineffective operations. In this research, we discuss collaboration in humanitarian supply chains, and analyze causes of their dysfunctional operations. Furthermore, we develop an experiential learning approach that can sensitize humanitarian supply chain actors to causes of information distortion. The simulation approach was implemented in the field and instructional design cycles yielded insights into how staff apply their learnings under the specific conditions of humanitarian relief work.

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Applied Optimization, 2005

Current surveys reveal that the practice of Supply Chain Management has had little impact upon bu... more Current surveys reveal that the practice of Supply Chain Management has had little impact upon business performance. This opportunity loss stands in stark contrast to the wealth of knowledge, and volumes of materials available to both researchers and practitioners alike. The dissemination of Supply Chain Management theory, from its roots in Operations Research to its application in business operations, is

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals Cases

When established markets in the West are stagnating or in crisis, companies increasingly look to ... more When established markets in the West are stagnating or in crisis, companies increasingly look to emerging markets, especially the so-called BRICs, for growth potential. However, these new markets also pose unique challenges, for which the best practices and assumptions of Western managers are not automatically suited. Setting up supply chains in new regions confronts firms with multiple challenges in terms of regulation, resources, culture, and infrastructure. In this case study, students will accompany a successful German FMCG manager as he plans his company’s expansion into Russia, and is forced to look at the opportunities and challenges from a new perspective.

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

The international division of labor and vertical specialization represented by Global Value Chain... more The international division of labor and vertical specialization represented by Global Value Chains or GVCs have redefined global trade. The phenomenon has been studied by multiple disciplines, including economists, geographers, sociologists, and historians. This article synthesizes various lines of inquiry, and notes their respective assumptions. IB research on GVCs continues to focus on Multinational Enterprises or MNEs, assuming that they exert control over the network through buying power and superior knowledge. Structure and governance are, however, not necessarily destiny in a GVC. Porter’s original definition of the Value Chain stated that competitive strategies manage not just local costs, but the linkages between dependent nodes. Two Swiss firms illustrate how small suppliers can be successful within GVCs by managing network effects. We conclude with the implication of new business models and strategies on IB research and practice.

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

The Humanitarian Leader

The challenges of humanitarian leadership are well-studied by the social sciences. However, there... more The challenges of humanitarian leadership are well-studied by the social sciences. However, there is untapped potential in applying private sector management principles and best practices to humanitarian work. Some non- profit organisations have fruitful experience applying Lean Management, an innovative management system developed by Toyota, which is not just about manufacturing better cars or improving industrial processes. Lean focuses the organisation on providing more value to its customers which, in the case of the humanitarian sector, are its beneficiaries. Our panel shared their experience of using Lean Management to address common issues in humanitarian operations. Their stories demonstrate the potential of Lean to transform work and relationships by devolving power to lower-level workers and partners. By empowering staff and local entities, it also improves relationships, collaboration, and ultimately the outcomes of humanitarian missions.

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management

PurposeThis paper explores growth opportunities for a contract manufacturer (CM), which operates ... more PurposeThis paper explores growth opportunities for a contract manufacturer (CM), which operates a global virtual manufacturing network (GVMN). The Swiss factory should play a profitable role in the holding's competitive strategy, in spite of lower-cost alternatives within its network.Design/methodology/approachThe study applied a design science method over a period of two years of collaboration with the partner firm to complete three iterations of solution incubation and refinement.FindingsThe design artefact is a growth strategy for a CM with independently-managed, heterogeneous sites. A novel capability mapping tool reveals competitive advantage by deploying the GVMN as an order fulfilment system. Engineering and sales are integrated with production to project higher revenue streams in multiple locations including Switzerland.Research limitations/implicationsThe research expands the operations management (OM) focus on optimization and continuous improvement. Results indicate ...

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Production Planning & Control

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Emerald Emerging Markets Case Studies

Learning outcomes Upon completion of this case study, students will have learned to identify and ... more Learning outcomes Upon completion of this case study, students will have learned to identify and analyze pending organizational failure, based upon company data. They will have formulated a business strategy (either cost leadership, differentiation or focus), as well as propose process improvements to cope with changing macroeconomic factors, costs, supplier conditions, and especially talent management and retention. Students will practice the logical organization of information, articulating the key facts and assumptions underlying their solutions. They will practice communicating with a possibly hostile executive team, to whom they defend their proposal based on its merits. Case overview/synopsis This case recounts the recent history of the XT Beauty, a fictionalized but real company headquartered in Moscow, selling professional cosmetics, electrical instruments and equipment for beauty salons in St. Petersburg, and other cities in Russia. XT Beauty enjoyed successful growth until...

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact

Emerald Emerging Markets Case Studies

Learning outcomes Upon completion of this case study, students will have learned to identify and ... more Learning outcomes Upon completion of this case study, students will have learned to identify and analyze pending organizational failure, based upon company data. They will have formulated a business strategy (either cost leadership, differentiation or focus), as well as propose process improvements to cope with changing macroeconomic factors, costs, supplier conditions, and especially talent management and retention. Students will practice the logical organization of information, articulating the key facts and assumptions underlying their solutions. They will practice communicating with a possibly hostile executive team, to whom they defend their proposal based on its merits. Case overview/synopsis This case recounts the recent history of the XT Beauty, a fictionalized but real company headquartered in Moscow, selling professional cosmetics, electrical instruments and equipment for beauty salons in St. Petersburg, and other cities in Russia. XT Beauty enjoyed successful growth until...

Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact