Abstract
Event management in non-hierarchical networks is based on agile collaboration processes to address events which are inevitable and more difficult to deal with in such complex type of organisation but, on the other hand, can benefit from a higher potential of expertise and resources. In this paper, a first approach of a theoretical framework is proposed, identifying the main concepts and explaining the mechanisms present when dealing with expected and unexpected events in the operation of non-hierarchical production networks. It is demonstrated that this approach is relevant to cope with the level of complexity of non-hierarchical networks and to assure the desired level of performance. © 2011 The Authors.

Abstract
State-of-the-art customization strategies help manufacturing organizations to better fulfill customers' expectation. There is a need to adopt suitable strategic options with the view to develop product variants with minimum lead time and cost. In such perspectives, platform-based product family is an important concept that supports the efficient manufacturing of a stream of product variants created from the basic platform. This approach supports the true customization strategy and especially suitable in the case of customize-to-order (CTO) production scenario, where various modules or components are added or replaced on the basic platform to bring customized variants. Specific module or feature known as white spot can also be added on the common platform to bring the option to specify and manufacture an individualized product. The CTO scenario can be performed in a collaborative manner, where the corresponding partners actively taking part in the product development process to achieve potential benefits such as resource sharing, exchanging of innovative ideas and expertise, higher market segment, etc. This research investigates the outcomes from collaborative platform-based product family approach in terms of assuring higher customization and profitability. © 2011 Research Institute for Ope.

Abstract
Markets today are characterized by enormous uncertainty in demand that combined with the increasing complexity of new products and competition, has forced companies to adopt new collaboration strategies with its business partners. SMEs need to form non-hierarchical networks where they can complement their capabilities and resources, achieve higher added value and higher control of the business. In these environments, decision making becomes decentralized and operations' planning presents new challenges and becomes more collaborative. An integrated solution for non-hierarchical networks collaborative planning is presented in this paper. The solution proposed includes two collaborative planning scenarios (aggregate and detailed), applied in different phases of non-hierarchical networks' lifecycle, which allows SME's to negotiate prices and delivery times in a collaboratively way. The solution considers requirements from companies belonging to three different industrial sectors, assuring its wide applicability. © 2011 Research Institute for Ope.

Abstract

Abstract
The last decade has been characterized by times of change, including increasing levels of globalization and competition. Collaboration allowed SMEs to respond effectively to the development of new complex products and services but presented new barriers concerning the management of their business processes and relations with partners. This paper presents a new collaborative aggregate planning for non-hierarchical business networks, where SMEs collaborate in the selection of partners and definition of the operations plan required to specify, manufacture and distribute a custom made products. The proposed approach is based on negotiations undertaken by the partners in order to promote the creation of alternative operations plans and allow a multicriteria evaluation of the involved costs and delivery dates. The proposed approach promotes the reduction of communication between partners, a reactive analysis of changes to planning and associated impact, enhancement of trust (since all partners have the same weight on the decision process).