A description is given of the recent development of new production and work organization methods in Sweden, especially refering to the automotive sector (buses, trucks and cars). Details are given on the characteristics of the recently built Volvo Group Uddevalla plant, designed according the "dock assembly" concept. A discussion is also presented on the similarities and dissimilarities between the above plant and others like the Toyota plant in apan. As a conclusion, the importance of the consideration of new and adapted solutions to the Brazilian case is suggested with reference to work organization methods that could contribute to the productivity increase of production systems (in a general sense).
Semi-autonomous groups; swedish model of works organization; toyotism and iust-in-time; new forms of production organization