Advanced manufacturing technology transfer and implementation in developing countries. The case of the Cypriot manufacturing industry

This paper investigates the transfer and implementation process of advanced manufacturing technologies (AMTs) in developing countries using the Cypriot manufacturing industry as a case study. Specifically the paper addresses: (1) the management processes followed during the transfer of technology into the manufacturing environment, and (2) the steps followed both before and after implementation and productive operation of the technologies. The results indicate that despite the distance between the manufacturer and the technology suppliers, no difficulties were experienced in acquiring information about the available technologies and the suitability of these technologies for the specific manufacturing environment. Preparations and human resource development prior to the introduction of the technologies were found, in general, not to be carried out at the level expected from the international literature to ensure successful implementation, but these problems were more effectively addressed after the introduction of AMT. In general, these deficiencies did not prove detrimental to the successful operation of the new technologies.