The impact of product architecture on supply chain integration: a case study of Nokia and Texas Instruments

Since semiconductor elements are important in determining the total value of mobile phones in the global supply chain, the relationship pattern between semiconductor suppliers and mobile phone manufacturers is worthy of careful examination. As of now, little research attention has been paid to this dynamic reality. This paper introduces a brief industry background of semiconductors and mobile phones. A research model defines the role of product architecture in the nature of supply chain integration. Over the years, Nokia (as mobile phone manufacturer) and Texas Instruments (as component supplier) have maintained collaborative strategic alliances for their mutual competitive advantages. In contrast to the experiences of the personal computer industry, this case study of Nokia and Texas Instruments provides an insight into how mobile phone industry has been evolving in the context of global market.