This paper provides a synthesis of world class manufacturing literature by identifying eight critical factors of world class status in a manufacturing environment. These factors can be used individually or collectively to assess a profile or organization‐wide world class manufacturing...

The article describes the tiffin carriers of Bombay (Mumbai), India, who pick‐up and deliver 200,000 hot lunches within a 3‐hour window. This business demonstrates the influence of culture and geography (urban infrastructure) on organizational structure, employee behavior, and the emergence...