Globalisation in reverse at Boeing

Globalisation in reverse at Boeing
Published 8 Sep 2009   Follow @SamRoggeveen

Boeing's 787 program was meant to be a model of globalisation, with components sourced from all over the world (including Australia) and shipped to Seattle for final construction. But although Boeing has a huge backlog of orders for the type, it is now two years behind schedule, yet to fly, and suffering cancellations or delayed orders.

Globalisation has been part of the problem, with Boeing unable to fully control the quality of components manufactured by others. Boeing is clearly reviewing its strategy; here's CEO Jim McNerney (h/t IAGblog):

As far as the extensive 787 program outsourcing to suppliers, McNerney was asked whether he would do it the same way again. He said he would not.


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