ABSTRACT
This chapter revisits the main themes examined in the literature in order to provide a theoretical foundation for Chapters seven and eight, which analyse issues that arise from the research presented in Chapter five. The chapter identifies the nature of change in the automotive sector that has led to new manufacturing approaches, and shows there is need to undertake concerted environmental scanning so that external change is accurately monitored and anticipated. Whilst this appears to be traditionally a senior-management activity, contemporary changes to work practices ostensibly seem to require wider involvement so that strategy emerges from the contribution of individuals and teams close to the production processes. In this way, the organisations may have more potential to develop a proactive relationship with the environment and may be more able to exert choice in their actions and decisions.
