Production targets

A-Tier
Journal: RAND Journal of Economics
Year: 2008
Volume: 39
Issue: 4
Pages: 990-1017

Score contribution per author:

2.011 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

We analyze a dynamic model of quantity competition, where firms continuously adjust their quantity targets, but incur convex adjustment costs when they do so. Quantity targets serve as a partial commitment device and, in equilibrium, follow a hump‐shaped pattern. The final equilibrium is more competitive than in the static analog. We then use data on monthly production targets of the Big Three U.S. auto manufacturers and show a similar empirical hump‐shaped dynamic pattern. Taken together, this suggests that strategic considerations may play a role in setting auto production schedules, and that static models may misestimate the industry's competitiveness.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:bla:randje:v:39:y:2008:i:4:p:990-1017
Journal Field
Industrial Organization
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-25