Study: Boeing 748 Dreamliner Logistics
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner construction project began in earnest in the early 2000’s, with an initial completion date around 2008. However, the project was rife with problems, delays, issues, and mistakes related to logistics and planning. Use the Hunt Library to research related articles. Study the articles and complete a written one and a half to two page case study analysis. Begin with a summary overview outlining the main logistics issues facing Boeing as the Dreamliner project progressed. Then, add detail and analysis by responding to the following topics and questions.
- Assess the extent to which Boeing used modern technology to help control and manage the 787 project. Justify your answer with an appropriate example or illustration, and cite a reliable source to support your comments.
- Describe any quality methods used by Boeing during the 787 project. Evaluate the effectiveness of those methods if used.
Identify the most valuable logistics lessons learned from the Boeing 787 construction experience, and suggest ways for present logistics managers to avoid making similar errors. Comment on why such management errors are made considering that best practices have been taught about logistics and project management for several decades. Why do you think well-educated professionals fall into ineffective practices leading to such cases as with Boeing?