Subassembly production launches are becoming increasingly challenging for Tier I suppliers. Supply chain data inputs are expanding, and variables are changing more frequently. Major industry technology transitions are one macro trend adding supply chain complexity. For example, General Motors will continue to produce internal combustion engine vehicles alongside new electric vehicles until at least 2030, which will exponentially grow both the number of end-products and parts. Further, our more dynamic world is hampering launches; headwinds ranging from tariffs to recessions are causing us to change our supply chain plans.

To uncover specific actions that manufacturers can take to accelerate new subassembly launches, my company, IndustryStar Solutions LLC, conducted a series of in-depth interviews. We teamed with Sime Curkovic, Ph.D., professor of management at the Haworth College of Business at Western Michigan University to craft and administer a 68-question survey that was completed by 250 professionals across 25 industries. Participating companies included Denso, Cooper Standard and Inteva.