Assignment:
1. Consider the two categories of products that Timbuk2 makes and sells. For the ?custom messenger bag, what are the key competitive dimensions that are driving sales? Are their competitive priorities different from the new laptop bags sourced in China?
2. Compare the assembly line in China to that in San Francisco along the following dimensions:
a. Volume or rate of production.
b. Required skill of the workers.
c. Level of automation.
d. Amount of raw materials and finished goods inventory.
3. Other than manufacturing cost, what costs should Timbuk2 consider when making the sourcing decision?