ISSN:
0957-6061
Source:
Emerald Fulltext Archive Database 1994-2005
Topics:
Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Production Engineering, Mining and Metallurgy, Traffic Engineering, Precision Mechanics
,
Economics
Notes:
The adoption of integrated computer-based manufacturing and managementtechniques by small, traditional engineering companies often representsan unaffordable and high risk investment strategy in technology that isoften not well understood by its recipients. Paradoxically, theopportunity for complete success in a small to medium-sized enterprise(SME) is greater than in a large company which very often is incapableof full integration due to the divisions and inertia implicit in a largehierarchical organization. To derive full benefits from such aninvestment the company must possess a meticulous understanding of itsmarket, fiscal environment, operations management, engineering andtechnological skills, manufacturing facilities and product range. Itmust adopt an appropriate implementation of CIM that does not debaseprevious ad hoc investments in what are often termedislands-of-automation or information technology. For success awell-planned stepwise approach is vital. Reports on the approach adoptedby a small to medium-sized Scottish engineering company specializing inthe production of mechanical actuation systems. Over a three-year periodthe company embarked on a low-cost, phased implementation of softwareand hardware systems that exploit a database to integrate its design,manufacturing the business operations. A major element in these systemsis the distributed Command, Communication and Control (C3) environmentwhich has transformed the effectiveness of operations. The company'sinvestments were based on a prudent assessment of its current andplanned product range, existing and planned manufacturing facilities,the scale of its operations and business objectives.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/09576069410064724
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