Outlines some major features that should be incorporated into the design of cell‐based manufacturing systems. Presents these features as a series of observations which are based on experiences gained during a three‐year period covering the implementation of such a system. Presents a set of...

Global competition has made it necessary for many firms to introduce such advanced technologies as Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS). However, the extent of such technology applications varies from industry to industry and has met various degrees of success. Reviews the impetus for the...

The potential benefits that a firm can expect from an automated factory, the economic justification and the steps for implementing flexible manufacturing systems are discussed. Some British companies are used as case examples. They all point to the need for the UK to implement the automated...

Recent advances in product design and manufacturing technologies allow for high levels of product variety at low cost, leading to economies of scope. Economies of scope allow for multiple product operations without the cost penalty of traditional economy‐of‐scale‐based technology. Examines...

Purpose – Selection of material handling systems (MHS) is an important decision to be taken during the design of flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) as it affects the layout of FMS. Many researchers have addressed this issue of MHS selection in the domain of operations management, while a few...

BMW axle design has evolved considerably in recent years to reduce weight and increase performance. The latest developments have created the need for a relatively precise finish machining operation on axle carriers. To perform this machining, BMW uses innovative Tricept robots due to the high...

The successful development of information systems for flexible manufacturing systems depends on several factors. Many studies have been investigating these factors during the development of information systems for various applications. Examines findings from the MIS literature and derives some...

Purpose – Aims to conceptualize flexible logistics programs and information connectivity as two important aspects of logistics flexibility and to examine the role of information connectivity in making flexible logistics programs successful. Design/methodology/approach – A hierarchical...

Purpose – Against a background of a customization imperative embraced by manufacturing firms in industrialised nations and the concomitant call for more balanced performance measurement systems (PMS), this study seeks to examine the mediating role of both non‐financial and financial...