1 Flexibility, a subset of Manufacturing Strategy Pradip P.Patil, Research Scholar, Production & Industrial Engg, VJTI, Mumbai Dr.B.E.Narkhede, Assistant Professor, Production & Industrial Engg, VJTI, Mumbai Dr.M.M.Akarte Associate Professor, NITIE, Mumbai. Abstract This is a study about flexibility, a strategic dimension of a manufacturing strategy. The need for flexibility is driven by the varying customer demand, global competition, and technological advancement. Therefore in addition to quality, cost and time, flexibility has become an important competitive weapon for manufacturing companies. In manufacturing strategy, it is necessary to understand the flexibility concept based on literature review. The impact of flexibility is assessed on manufacturing strategy in view of flexibility types, evaluation methods and its application of specific business needs. The measurement of flexibility is assessed based on literature review. With rapid advancement of technology, equipment, and manufacturing methods, it is necessary to understand the implications of selecting resources. The incorporation of flexibility in manufacturing requires strategic implementation of decisions related to structure and infrastructure of the organization. This paper presents investigation into factors that influence the selection of particular flexibility by evaluating various dimensions of flexibility which enhance the competitive position of the manufacturing firms. Also this paper suggests the benefit of adoption of strategic flexibility. Keywords: Flexibility, Manufacturing Strategy Introduction In the current manufacturing scenario, industries are facing tremendous market pressure of diversified nature due to more sophisticated market, changing customer choice and global competition. Market pressure now necessitates a strategic and tactical framework that allows companies to behave in an adaptive/flexible manner that permits continuous evolution in the market. In such a competitive scenario companies have to search for new processes, new materials, new vendors, new shop floor design and new channels to deliver their products and services at competitive prices. Proceedings of GLOGIFT 09 November 12 – 14, 2009 National Institute of Industrial Engineering Mumbai, India