The brompton-ness of it all
2 days ago
- #process knowledge
- #outsourcing
- #industrial development
- The author discusses the concept of 'process knowledge' in industrial development, emphasizing its importance in maintaining innovation and efficiency within a company.
- A detailed example from Brompton Bicycles illustrates the decision-making process behind outsourcing versus keeping production in-house to preserve 'Brompton-ness'—unique knowledge and innovation tied to the company's identity.
- The text references Alfred Marshall's observations on industrial clusters in Sheffield, highlighting how localized industries benefit from shared knowledge, skilled labor, and subsidiary trades.
- The author reflects on the British industrial model, which focuses on selling expertise and process knowledge as a service, contrasting it with the German or Chinese models that bundle knowledge with physical products.
- A minor correction is noted regarding the manufacturing process of a wire clip at Brompton Bicycles, underscoring the importance of accurate process knowledge.