The hope that profitability can be increased or maximized with automation has been the driving force for computer integrated manufacturing (CIM). The CIM concept is a combination of all production‐related activities to be completely integrated by means of computer‐supported systems. Provides...

The computer is probably the single greatest innovation of the twentieth century. However, with all their awe‐inspiring capabilities, computers create a new set of problems. Seeks to explore the problems of the automation and computer age. Begins by highlighting numerous corporate woes and...

Decisions relating to adoption and use of just‐in‐time (JIT) are typically based on economic considerations. Experience with JIT systems indicates that certain non‐economic issues can arise which affect long‐term profitability. Suggests that stakeholder theory be used to consider JIT...

Discusses a new methodology for launching or expanding the commercialization of new under‐utilized technologies. The approach discussed involves the active participation of international industrial opinion leaders in the commercial development process, and the role they can play in: assessing...

Increasing utilization of expert systems in organizations has ecessitated development of large‐scale expert systems that deal with complex problem domains requiring handling of large knowledge bases. Adapts the concepts and structures of open information systems to outline a conceptual...

Addresses the need for re‐engineering information systems (IS) in a rapidly changing environment, and the urgency of doing this to meet current and future needs of organizations whose existence is dependent on coping with rapidly changing requirements. Implicit in this view is the need for...

Examines the value of expert systems in marketing organizations through a national mail survey of 117 marketing executives. All the examined respondents reported the successful use of expert systems in their organizations. The results indicate that while expert systems provide operational...

The usage of formal statistical forecasting procedures has been shown in numerous studies to improve forecast accuracy and, consequently, organizational performance. However, the process of implementing and managing this technology can run into many stumbling blocks. Identifies six major...

Sets out to provide an understanding of the theory of fuzzy logic by supplying background details concerning its evolution in mathematics and computer science. Once a basic understanding of the theory is obtained, then it is easier to understand the implications for computer applications. Fuzzy...

A recent article reported that employees′ performance increased when they were allowed to chose the production method and were provided with the outcome feedback on their performance. Extends that study by analysing the effect of discretion, outcome feedback, and process feedback on employee...