Donald Gerwin

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Donald Gerwin is a foundational figure in the study of manufacturing strategy and the organizational challenges of advanced manufacturing technology. His research centers on the critical intersection of technology management, innovation, and operational flexibility, particularly during the adoption and implementation of factory automation. Gerwin’s major contributions include developing frameworks to understand the strategic trade-offs between flexibility and control in automated systems, and identifying the key managerial and structural barriers to successful technology integration. His seminal 1986 paper, "Research needs in managing factory automation" (28 citations), was a pioneering call to action that framed automation not merely as a technical challenge but as a profound organizational and strategic upheaval. This work helped shape the research agenda for a generation of operations and technology management scholars. Gerwin’s impact is seen in his ability to bridge engineering and management perspectives, offering actionable insights for firms navigating technological change. His legacy endures in the continued relevance of his work on manufacturing flexibility and the human dimensions of technological innovation, making him a key reference for students and researchers in operations management and innovation studies.