Perspectives on production economics

Production economics is an interdisciplinary scientific field where research focus on the interface between engineering and management. The International Journal of Production Economics is the flagship journal for this research field, while the International Working Seminar on Production Economics has always been an opportunity for researchers in the field of production economics to present the results of their latest research, receiving constructive feedback from a respectful audience. The main research areas in production economics include from product development to production and logistics systems, from production and operations management to supply chain management, in relation to manufacturing and process industries, as well as production in general, are covered. A selection of papers has been thoroughly revised to be included in this virtual special issue grouped into different perspectives of production economics. All the main research areas in production economics are covered, in which authors have explored and brought new perspectives such as the advances (in problems definition and methodologies), the impact of digitalization, and the impact of environmental and societal aspects. A wide range of methods have been used showing a good mix of qualitative and quantitative approaches, well-motivated, supported and validated. Their impact has been illustrated through various use cases, from conventional discrete manufacturing to food supply chain, from energy sector to e-commerce. We hope the readers will find inspiration from this virtual special issue and new research streams will be developed based on the gaps identified by the contributions here reported.