Conclusion
Boeing's Dreamliner program involves dramatic shifts in
supply chain strategy from traditional methods used in
the aerospace industry. In addition, Boeing boasted
about its novel manufacturing techniques and its
technological marvels. Such dramatic shifts from
convention involve significant potential for
encountering risks throughout the process. Boeing's
ongoing issues with meeting delivery deadlines are a
direct result of its decision to make drastic changes in
the design, the development process, and the supply
chain associated with the Dreamliner program
simultaneously without having the proper management
team in place. Further, this team did not proactively
assess the risks that were later realized and did not
develop coherent strategies for effectively mitigating
them. Although it may be impossible to identify all
potential risks and create contingency plans for all
eventualities before a project begins, Boeing could have
done many things differently. It is instructive for
managers in any industry to view the issues that Boeing
faced and analyze how these issues were handled so
that they can learn from mistakes that were made before
engaging in similar supply chain restructuring.