Investigation of key performance indicators for performance management of the manufacturing industry in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic

The execution of constructive Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) is a critical tool for the Performance Management (PM) of the manufacturing industry to regulate operations. The companies rely on the PM strategies grounded on conventional KPIs assessment to achieve sustainability although the current dynamic manufacturing environment is undergoing complexities. The KPIs used in the past for PM are not mutually dependent, as they have not been adequately measured and updated to address emergency situations like the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for the Leather Products Industry (LPI). Monitoring of plentiful KPIs is inconceivable and literature is also not available. Realizing these gaps, this study accumulates suggestions from a wide-ranging context of 25 experts’ feedback. Initially, a set of KPI was identified through literature review and experts survey. Later, employing a Pareto analysis, 15 KPIs were identified from 48 KPIs. Then the finalized KPIs investigated utilizing linguistic Z-digits and Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) to find the “Cause-Effect” relationship. An industrial chronology is conferred to demonstrate the potency and functionality of the suggested method. The upshot signifies the “Target fulfillment within the delivery time during COVID-19” as the most important KPI for the studied case. The outcomes will assist the LPI managers to dictate crucial KPIs suitably and flourish the PM in attaining the goals and objectives.