New Technology and the Management of Expertise in Customer-Supplier Relations, 1985-1990

<p>Abstract copyright UK Data Service and data collection copyright owner.</p>This research examined the management of the user-supplier interface, firstly, in relation to the sale or purchase of computer-based technologies and secondly, in relation to the product development process in the supplier. The technologies were those used either in production and quality control processes or as tools for product development. The research focused on the organisation structures devised by firms to manage the uncertainties inherent in such transactions; it also assessed the extent to which collaborative as opposed to adversarial styles of contracting were conducted. Interviews were carried out with engineers and managers in three companies linked by a customer-supplier relationship.<br> <br> <br><B>Main Topics</B>:<br>Management techniques; business management; production management; personnel management; science and technology; technological information systems; technological development; technological change; organisations; quality control; product development; supply; engineering; computer science; customers; purchasing.