Case Studies: Medical Devices

Aligning the Supply Chain Photo

Aligning the Supply Chain

Laura R. Kopczak, M. Eric Johnson
Length: 17 pages
Publication date: 2006
Case#: 6-0024

Align Technology, makers of the highly successful orthodontic treatment Invisalign, was in the midst of a transition from a start-up venture to an established firm. With customer orders stepping up, Align outlined a multi-million dollar IT investment for a new execution system that would address the growing complexity of managing its multi-country operations. This case study examines the challenges of manufacturing a mass customization product and the business case behind Align's investment in a new enterprise information system to automate its supply chain. 

Preview copy in PDF format (490K)

Topics: Manufacturing, Services, Supply Chain

Industry: Medical Devices

Request Teaching Note (if available), for professors only | Order a Copy of this Case Study