Posits that disappointing results from the implementation of best practices
are due to a failure to link practices to specific measurable objectives,
failure to prioritise best practices, and a lack of analysis of necessary i
nfrastructure practices. Describes the development of a framework for selec
ting practices which will improve operational performance in the area of ma
nufacturing planning and control. Suggests that selection should be based o
n strength of relationships between practices and performance objectives an
d take into account dependency relationships between practices. Integrates
theory and empirical data to investigate links between practices and perfor
mance, thereby providing a framework for selecting practices based on objec
tives and dependency relationship between practices. Case studies, structur
ed interviews and postal questionnaires were used to develop and validate t
he framework presented.