bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Object oriented and distributed software applied to industrial robotic welding
Authors: Norberto Pires J. , Loureiro A. , Godinho T. , Ferreira P. , Fernando B. , Morgado J.
Published: July 2002

Associating robot manipulators with industrial welding operations is common and maybe one of the most successful applications of industrial robots. Nevertheless, it is far from being a solved technological process, mainly because the welding process is not fully understood but also because robots are still at an early satge of development, being difficult to use and program by regular operators. This is also true for Human Machine Interfaces (HMI), which are not intuitive to use and are therefore unsatisfactory. In this paper we discuss these problems and present a system designed with the double objective of serving our R&D efforts on welding applications, but also our need to assist industrial partners working with welding setups. Frequently industrial partners are not happy with available commercial systems, requiring tailored solutions that could be adapted to several robots and robot controllers. The developed system is explained in some detail, and demonstrated using two test cases which reproduce two situations very common in industry: multi‐layer butt welding (used on big structures requiring very strong welds) and multi‐point fillet welding (used for example on structural pieces for the construction industry).
Robots penetrate where humans cannot
Authors: Kochan Anna
Published: July 2002

The French Atomic Energy Commission, or CEA, has developed a range of remote controlled manipulators and mobile robots that is designed for inspection and intervention tasks in hostile environments, particularly those associated with nuclear power plants. This paper outlines the activities related to mobile robots, and highlights the need for varied mechanical concepts. Different locomotion principles are required, for example, for the inspection of the interior of a 100mm diameter pipe and for the movement of a 100kg payload up and down a stairwell.
Autonomous humanoid robot locomotion based on neural networks
Authors: Capi Genci , Nasu Yasuo , Mitobe Kazuhisa , Barolli Leonard
Published: July 2002

This paper contributes to the problem of humanoid robot gait generation in unknown environments. The intention of the proposed method is to create an autonomous humanoid robot, able to take decisions and generate the appropriate optimal gait based on the information received by the eye system. Up to now, we have created two modules: walking and going upstairs. In order to create an autonomous humanoid robot, we plan to consider other tasks like going downstairs, creeping, obstacle overcoming, etc. In this paper, we present the simulation and experimental results for real time humanoid robot gait generation realized with the “Bonten‐Maru I” humanoid robot. The results showed that the Neural Network modules generate in a very short time a stable humanoid robot motion.
Multi‐axis robots bring automation to life sciences
Authors: Vogt Gerald
Published: July 2002

Automation of cell culture techniques and drug discovery programmes in the life science industries is increasing as pharmaceutical and biotech companies realise the advantages achievable through the use of multi‐axis robots bringing precise control and reliable, consistent performance to many complex and delicate processes. Describes the development and application of the “Cellmate” and “SelecT” robotic cell culture and drug discovery systems by the UK company The Automation Partnership Ltd.. Benefits sited include flexibility of operation and smooth movements that are essential for handling fragile cell cultures.
An initial classification of supply networks
Authors: Lamming Richard , Johnsen Thomas , Zheng Jurong , Harland Christine
Published: July 2002

The articulation of supply networks, as an extension of supply chains, seeks to accommodate and explain the commercial complexity associated with the creation and delivery of goods and services from the source of raw materials to their destination in end‐customer markets. In place of the simplistic, linear and unidirectional model sometimes presented for supply chains, the supply network concept describes lateral links, reverse loops, two‐way exchanges and so on, encompassing the upstream and downstream activity, with a focal firm as the point of reference. A review of classifications of supply networks reveals that none of the existing approaches appears adequate for managers facing the practical problems of creating and operating them on a day‐to‐day basis. This research identifies differing emphases that may be required for managing within supply networks, according to the nature of the products for which they are created. Taking an established categorisation of supply chains as its starting point, the research first develops the conceptual basis, using strategy literature, and then tests the resultant initial model in 16 case studies. Finally, a new categorisation for supply networks is presented, using the type of product as a differentiator.
The changing logistical system of the building materials supply chain
Authors: Voordijk Hans
Published: July 2002

This study analyses how policy measures and technological developments affect the trade‐offs between elements of the logistical system of a supply chain. It is assumed that this logistical system consists of the following elements: sourcing, production, inventory, transportation and service. Two cases of supply chains of building materials have been analysed. This analysis results in a matrix in which the effects of policy measures and technological developments for the different elements in the logistical system of these supply chains are classified.
Action research for operations management
Authors: Coughlan Paul , Coghlan David
Published: July 2002

A fundamental methodological question guides this paper: How can operations managers and researchers learn from the applied activity that characterises the practice of OM? To address this question, defines and explores the legitimacy of an action‐oriented research approach in OM, and the particular logic and value of applying action research (AR) to the description and understanding of issues in OM. Begins with a review of the role of empirical research in OM and how AR features within the OM research literature. Introduces the theory and practice of AR and outlines the AR cycle and how AR is implemented. Finally, describes the skills required to engage in AR and explores issues in generating theory. Concludes with the assertion that AR is relevant and valid for the discipline of OM in its ability to address the operational realities experienced by practising managers while simultaneously contributing to knowledge.
Managing Operations in the Former Soviet Union: Current Situation and
Future Development
Authors: Radovilsky Zinovy D.
Published: July 2002

Dealing with ex‐Soviet republics, American companies desperately need
reliable information about the current status of production and
operations management in the former Soviet Union. Describes some aspects
of managing operations in Russia and other ex‐Soviet republics. The
emphasis is made on forecasting, product design, facilities layout and
automation, work measurement, inventory management, and quality control.
Based on this analysis, presents some recommendations for improving
operations management in the former Soviet Union.
Security Issues in the EDI Environment
Authors: Banerjee Snehamay , Golhar Damodar Y.
Published: July 2002

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is rapidly becoming integrated in a
wide range of businesses. EDI usage is expected to increase in the
immediate future. This high growth in a potentially paperless
environment presents a variety of security risks, such as disclosure of
messages, tampering with messages, etc. Current legal and
contract‐related literature dealing with paper documents is not equipped
to deal with such problems. Identifies different types of security risks
and EDI agreements, and examines potential security risks under these
agreements. Discusses future research directions. This synthesis should
be useful to EDI users and researchers.
Perceived Effectiveness of the Automotive Supplier Evaluation Process
Authors: Purdy Lyn , Astad Unni , Safayeni Frank
Published: July 2002

Nineteen automotive supply organizations were interviewed regarding
their perceptions of the effectiveness of a North American automotive
certification programme. The major findings were that: suppliers viewed
preparing for the evaluation as the most important aspects of the
process; the evaluators detected only a small percentage of the
suppliers′ significant business and manufacturing problems; suppliers
perceived an overemphasis on procedures and documentation on the part of
the evaluators; and suppliers felt that the evaluation did not
accurately reflect their effectiveness. It was concluded that the
supplier evaluation programme reflected the management style of the
large bureaucratic customer organization, which was not necessarily
appropriate for the size and nature of the supplier′s business.
Further, good performance on the evaluation did not directly correspond
with further business contracts.
Determination of Operations/Production Downtime for Group Replacement
Maintenance Policy
Authors: Knezevic J.
Published: July 2002

Prediction of the duration of the downtime caused by maintenance,
especially in the cases where the system considered consists of several
repairable items, presents a challenge for maintenance managers, because
of possible revenue losses during these intervals of time. Responds to
this challenge through the new methodology for the fast, accurate
prediction of maintainability measures related to the group replacement
maintenance policy. It is applicable to group maintenance tasks in which
individual replacement tasks are performed: simultaneously,
sequentially, and combined. The method presented could be successfully
used at the planning stage of the operations/production process when the
information available is based on previous experience only, as well as
at the stage when the process is performed. The applicability and
usefulness of the methodology proposed is demonstrated through an
illustrative numerical example.
A Deterministic Maintenance‐scheduling Problem for a Group of
Non‐identical Machines
Authors: Hariga Moncer
Published: July 2002

Addresses a deterministic maintenance‐scheduling problem for a group of
non‐identical machines. The problem is formulated as a mixed integer
non‐linear program which is approached heuristically. In the model
formulation, it is assumed that a major overhaul brings the machine back
to its new condition, whereas a minor overhaul restores it to a
specified operating condition. An iterative solution procedure is
developed to obtain a near‐optimal cyclic overhaul schedule. Presents a
worked example to illustrate the proposed solution method.
The TSC Project: A Strategic R&D Initiative in Operations Management
Authors: Khoong C.M. , Ku Y.W.
Published: July 2002

The Total Service Concept (TSC) framework, which forms part of a
long‐term R&D strategy in the Information Technology Institute in
Singapore, is aimed towards sustained product development for service
operations management applications. The TSC project is centred around
the design of state‐of‐the‐art, robust operations research and
management science models, supported by innovative computing tools. The
project is an unprecedented, multi‐million dollar effort that is
targeted for regional market penetration by the mid 1990s. Discusses
the key motivations behind the TSC project, the TSC framework, and the
long‐term R&D strategy and deliverables for the TSC effort.
Student Bias against POM Coursework and Manufacturing
Authors: Desai Kiran , Inman R. Anthony
Published: July 2002

Students have traditionally shied away from the production and
operations management (POM) courses offered in schools of business in
favour of financial and marketing coursework. Looks at proposed reasons
for this phenomenon and surveys students regarding their perceptions of
the POM discipline and careers in manufacturing. While a number of
suspicions are confirmed, some surprising perceptions are uncovered. A
strategy for overcoming possible bias is offered.
A Very Fast Production Scheduler
Authors: Chang Chao‐Lin , Hastings Nicholas A.J. , White Chris
Published: July 2002

A fast production scheduling system, the very fast scheduler (VFS), has
been developed by the authors. It creates a capacity constrained
production schedule within one minute of elapsed time for problems of a
size encountered in industry. The quality of the schedules is comparable
with the best alternative heuristic scheduling techniques. The speed of
the scheduler is such that it can be used on a real‐time basis to plan
capacity, adjust priorities and other parameters and derive new
schedules.
The sensitivity of rule combinations for scheduling in a hybrid job
shop
Authors: Huq Faizul , Huq Ziaul
Published: July 2002

Much of the research literature in job shop scheduling deals with
pure job shop environments. However, currently most processes involve a
hybrid of both the job shop and a flow shop with a combination of
flexible and conventional machine tools. Presents a study of such a job
shop under varying conditions and performance criteria. Argues that for
scheduling in this environment, certain combinations of scheduling rules
should be utilized under different arrival rates and for different job
types. A simulation model is developed using a hypothetical hybrid job
shop to study the performance of rule combinations with variations in
arrival rates and processing times. The performance criteria used are
flowtime as a measure of work‐in‐process inventory, tardiness for JIT,
and throughput for completed items inventory. It was found that rule
combination performance varied with the performance criteria.
Furthermore, it was found that the combinations were sensitive to
arrival rates and processing times. Concludes, from the insights gained
in the study, that the rule combination to be implemented should depend
on the performance objective and the arrival rate/processing time
condition of the hybrid job shop.
Performance measurement and the focused factory: empirical evidence
Authors: New C.C. , Szwejczewski M.
Published: July 2002

Reviews the scale and scope of existing survey‐based studies of
manufacturing plants and discusses the contribution which the UK Best
Factory Awards Database may be able to make. Outlines the process of
selecting the winners, proposes a working model which relates
performance and strategy, and presents some initial illustrative results
from an analysis of the 1993 entrants. Briefly discusses the feedback
information which entering plants receive for benchmarking performance.
Presents initial research findings which relate to the concept of
manufacturing plant focus and indicates an asymmetric relationship for
focus concerned with make‐for‐stock versus make‐to‐order/assembly to
order foci. The evidence supports the view that dilution of a
make‐for‐stock policy has a negative impact on ex‐stock service level
while dilution of a make‐to‐order policy does not appear to
dilute due‐date performance.
Quality control methods in cycle counting for record accuracy
management
Authors: Wilson James M.
Published: July 2002

Materials requirements planning systems are susceptible to record
errors that reduce their effectiveness. Cycle counting programmes are a
common remedy for record accuracy problems. Studies of cycle counting
have generally focused on justifying its use or on implementing these
programmes. Uses statistical quality control analysis to develop a
theoretical base for record accuracy improvement in cycle counting
programmes. The methods described show how to design and implement an
effective cycle counting programme. Describes and illustrates the
development and use of process control charts for cycle counting
applications. These charts may be used to monitor and control
record‐keeping activities so that deteriorations in performance may be
detected and rectified before they become serious. The techniques
provide objective measures of record accuracy and performance; an
efficient design/ implementation of cycle counting pro‐grammes; and
clear linkages between cycle counting efforts and resulting levels of
record accuracy.
Culture, cognitive dissonance and the management of change
Authors: Burnes Bernard , James Hakeem
Published: July 2002

In the 1980s it became increasingly apparent that the management of change is a crucial factor in organizational performance. However, it became equally apparent that many organizations found great difficulty in successfully planning and implementing change. One oft‐quoted reason for this was the lack of involvement of those affected by the change in its planning and implementation. Consequently it now appears to be the received wisdom that employee involvement in change projects is “a good thing”. However, this blanket injunction to “involve” ignores both the context in which particular change projects take place and the varying degrees of involvement which are possible. In an attempt to rectify this, examines how an organization′s culture and the degree of cognitive dissonance generated by proposals for change influence the depth and type of employee involvement required to create a positive climate for change. Concludes by arguing that these factors are crucial not only in identifying the best approach to managing change in a particular situation but also in determining whether such a project should be undertaken in the first place.
Selection and implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies
Authors: Sambasivarao K.V. , Deshmukh S.G.
Published: July 2002

The importance of advanced manufacturing technology (AMT) has been
increasing because of their competitive advantages. Adoption of AMT
involves major investment, and large‐scale issues are involved in the
selection and justification of these technologies. Researchers have
identified a considerable number of issues and subattributes for
implementing various projects. Reviews the literature and then
classifies several of these implementation issues.
An integrated JIT inventory model
Authors: Banerjee Avijit , Kim Seung‐Lae
Published: July 2002

Derives an integrated inventory replenishment model for a buyer
that buys a single product from a vendor that manufactures this item and
delivers it to the former in fixed quantities. It is assumed that both
parties co‐operate and exchange information, including cost data, which
is not unheard of in a JIT based partnering relationship, in deriving a
jointly optimal inventory replenishment policy, rather than individually
deriving their own independent policies. Such an approach can result in
significant savings in the joint total relevant cost incurred by both
parties. These savings may be shared in some fair and equitable manner,
so that, from an economic standpoint, both the buyer and the vendor
derive substantive benefits from such an integrated, jointly optimal
policy. Illustrates the model and the related concepts through a simple
numerical example.
Manufacturing strategies in Hungarian industry
Authors: Chikán Attila , Demeter Krisztina
Published: July 2002

Discusses those changes which can be observed at Hungarian
manufacturing companies in the transition process from planned to market
economies. The changes are illustrated with the results of a series of
surveys, conducted in the framework of a research project on global
manufacturing practices. Shows that the adjustment of Hungarian
companies is rather fast, even though most of them still have a lot to
do to be really competitive at the international level. Suggests that
the processes which go on in the transition economies demonstrate the
strength of those general “rules” which guide manufacturing
management all over the world and which must be considered by all those
who wish to be successful.
The development of manufacturing strategy in a turbulent
environment
Authors: Prochno Paulo J.L.C. , Corrêa Henrique L.
Published: July 2002

Outlines the basic characteristics of a method for the development
of manufacturing strategy which is being implemented in a medium‐sized
manufacturing company in Brazil. The new method has been developed
because the ones found in the current literature were considered to be
inadequate for the requirements of the highly changeable Brazilian
industrial environment, and also to provide formal means through which
the manufacturing function of the company can have an effective
proactive role in such a turbulent environment. Some of the tools
developed, however, can also help companies which are in less turbulent
situations. The process followed neither the traditional top‐down nor
the bottom‐up approach. Rather, it was triggered at the
middle‐management level. Some of the original tools which the proposed
framework includes are: a method to ensure coherence between department
level goals and firm level overall competitive objectives; the use of
“contingency models” to favour the process of integration
between functions; and the use of scenarios to allow for the proactivity
of the functional areas. The implementation process partial results
showed that before the reported implementation, company resources had
been mistakenly allocated due to the lack of a well‐defined strategic
direction.
Strategic networks: morphology, epistemology and praxis
Authors: New Steve , Mitropoulos Ioannis
Published: July 2002

In marketing and operations literature, there is an emerging
consensus that the inter‐firm network is of strategic significance.
Challenges the assumption that supply networks are always “out
there” waiting to be investigated. Rather than treat networks as
objective artifacts, explores the extent to which they are invented and
chosen by actor(s)/observer(s). Uses examples to illustrate this
argument.
Developing a logistics strategy through participative business
modelling
Authors: Akkermans Henk
Published: July 2002

Introduces the participative business modelling method (PBM), a
management consulting method based on a synergetic mix of (system
dynamics) modelling, group knowledge elicitation techniques and a
process consultation attitude. PBM is a method well‐suited to support
managers in their strategic decision‐making processes, in particular in
the field of operations management, because it provides support in
dealing with both the technical and organizational complexities of
strategic decision making. Presents a case study where PBM was used to
assist in the development of a European logistics strategy for an
American pharmaceutical firm setting up operations in Europe. Discusses
findings from the analysis of the evaluation interviews with project
participants, which contain valuable lessons, not just for the PBM
method itself, but also for the theory of strategic decision making that
lies at the basis of the PBM method.
Analysis of tooling problems in discrete manufacturing industry
Authors: Perera Terrence , Shafaghi Matthew
Published: July 2002

Presents the results of a survey into the nature and scale of tool
management problems within the UK manufacturing industry and outlines
strategies to improve the management and control of tooling. Discusses
the qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques used to
collate data. Describes the characteristics of the sample to provide a
better understanding of their operations. Identifies most common tool
management problems and reports their impact on the efficiency of
manufacturing systems. Claims that more than 65 per cent of the sample
acknowledge that the management of control of tooling is a significant
operational problem. Provides an insight into the major causes of lack
of interest in tool management. Identifies computerized tool management
systems as a potential solution. Stresses that systematic analysis of
tooling problems and identification of root causes are essential prior
to implementation of computerized systems.
New wave manufacturing strategies
Authors: Harrison Alan , Storey John
Published: July 2002

Claims that existing literature on concepts such as lean production, just‐in‐time, and total quality management theory fails to address adequately critical aspects of the organizational realities of such innovations. Presents a new concept called “new wave manufacturing” in order to embrace the entirety of the development of these concepts. Assesses key distinguishing features, outlines prerequisites and social arrangements required. Finally, sets out research agenda consequent to the analysis.
Developing a lean production organization: an Australian case study
Authors: Sohal Amrik S.
Published: July 2002

Describes the experience of an Australian automotive parts manufacturer over the ten‐year period from 1984‐1994 as it adopted lean production methods and new work organization structures. Outlines the activities undertaken as part of a just‐in‐time programme during the second half of the 1980s and discusses the benefits achieved. Describes the company’s current initiative called TRIP (Trico Restructuring Improvement Programme) which has involved the development of work teams based on the sociotechnical system. Describes the implementation of work teams and the benefits achieved. Discusses the lessons learned from the company’s experience.
Production model discourse and experiences from the Swedish automotive industry
Authors: Engström Tomas , Jonsson Dan , Medbo Lars
Published: July 2002

Discusses production models for final assembly in the automotive industry and also reports on the performance of one final assembly plant representing an innovative production model, namely the Volvo Uddevalla plant. Briefly considers some issues and pitfalls in current production model discourse, and in this connection introduces a distinction between two manufacturing models and broader industrial models. Describes two manufacturing models for final assembly work as namely the “serial flow model” and the “parallel flow model”. Discusses the Japanese “lean production”, sometimes synonymous with “Toyotism”, as an industrial model and the impact of socio‐economic and socio‐cultural contexts on manufacturing models and industrial models. Concludes that the Uddevalla plant highlights the paradox that long cycle time work in parallel flow assembly systems is in fact more efficient than short cycle time work in serial flow systems, provided that suitable technical and administrative preconditions exist. Therefore, the engineering point of view and the Swedish experiences of innovative manufacturing systems should be carefully considered in the current production model discourse.
Set‐up reduction in pharmaceutical manufacturing: an action research study
Authors: Gilmore M. , Smith D.J.
Published: July 2002

The Japanese approach to manufacturing has been well documented. Many European firms have successfully adopted and adapted a variety of Japanese manufacturing techniques. This paper describes how a pharmaceutical manufacturer responded to an increased requirement for manufacturing flexibility through the introduction of a key Japanese manufacturing technique, namely machine set‐up time reduction. An unusual feature of the study is the use of action research. The strong emphasis on participation and collaboration inherent in action research, was felt to make it appropriate to tackling the company’s capacity problem. Not only were set‐up times substantially reduced, but action research demonstrated the value of all staff being involved in the problem‐solving process.
A survey and taxonomy of strategy‐related performance measures for manufacturing
Authors: White Gregory P.
Published: July 2002

Although the topic of manufacturing performance measurement has recently attracted considerable interest, little has been done to enumerate or classify the measures that exist. Lists 125 different strategy‐related measures that were found through a survey of accounting, manufacturing and managerial literature. Develops a taxonomy which categorizes those measures according to competitive priority (cost, quality, flexibility, delivery reliability, or speed), data source (internal or external), data type (objective or subjective), measure reference (self‐referenced or benchmark), and process orientation (process input or process outcome). Finds that the largest number of measures have been proposed for the competitive priority of flexibility and the fewest for delivery reliability. Most measures have focused only on process outcomes using self‐referenced objective data from internal sources. Based on these results, suggests that companies and academic researchers utilize new or different measures to assess adequately strategy‐related manufacturing performance.
Metaplanning in FMS scheduling
Authors: Lee Anita , Hung Cheng Chun
Published: July 2002

Presents an object‐oriented system for scheduling in a flexible manufacturing system (FMS) with the purpose of demonstrating how the control aspects of such a system can be enhanced by using metalevel planning. Represents the objects and metaknowledge of the system using an object‐oriented approach. The resulting system gives a clear, complete and comprehensive picture of the FMS environment, as well as a modular, flexible and interactive control mechanism to generate and maintain detailed FMS production schedules.
Multiple‐stage production planning research: history and opportunities
Authors: Simpson Natalie C. , Selcuk Erenguc S.
Published: July 2002

Surveys multiple‐stage production planning literature to reveal that this sizeable body of research is largely inspired by single‐item production planning. Suggests several promising research opportunities, including the possible development of scheduling techniques not derived from older, single‐item procedures. Highlights the need for further comparative testing between existing “improved” techniques, as well as the wealth of work yet to be done in multiple‐stage production planning with limited resources and possible extensions to supply‐chain management.
Buyer‐subcontractor relationships in the Italian clothing industry
Authors: Da Villa Francesco , Panizzolo Roberto
Published: July 2002

Examines, through an empirical survey, the nature of the relationships between buyer and subcontractor firms in the clothing industry in Italy. Starting from the identification of three classes of buyer firms (characterized by the different ways in which they relate to the market), develops an interpretive framework of firms’ strategies in managing subcontractor relationships. Shows that the buyer‐subcontractor relationship is undergoing a drastic evolution with the strategic importance of an “extended integrated production system” being recognized. Discusses how this ongoing evolutionary process is involving firms in different ways: the shift to an evolved buyer‐supplier relationship (characterized by a logic of integration/co‐operation), seems to concern only one of three classes of firm defined.
Product market, turbulence and time compression
Authors: Bhattacharya Arindam K. , Jina Jay , Walton Andrew D.
Published: July 2002

Discusses the conventional approach to manufacturing system design. Argues that this top‐down, uni‐directional approach is not sufficiently robust or easy to implement, particularly in brown‐field sites where maintaining focus has been found to be difficult. Suggests a three‐dimensional approach which incorporates product‐market considerations through focus, turbulence minimization and time compression, and looks at each of these three dimensions in detail. Presents the generic steps for implementing the new approach and describes a case example.
The contribution of quality to business performance
Authors: Forker Laura B. , Vickery Shawnee K. , Droge Cornelia L.M.
Published: July 2002

Quality is consistently listed as one of manufacturing’s top competitive priorities and has become a prerequisite for success in the global marketplace. Quality helps a firm gain a competitive advantage by delivering goods to the marketplace that meet customer needs, operate in their intended manner, and continuously improve quality dimensions in order to “surprise and delight” the customer. While quality’s significance has been emphasized for years, the contribution of quality to business performance has been largely unexplored. Results of a survey sent to the furniture industry show that quality dimensions ‐ especially design quality and product improvement ‐ are highly correlated with business performance. Quality remains the foundation of competitive advantage, even if a firm’s short‐term attention has drifted to speed‐to‐market, cost reduction and other concerns.
Performance evaluation of cellular manufacturing systems: a taxonomy and review of research
Authors: Shambu Girish , Suresh Nallan C. , Pegels C. Carl
Published: July 2002

The performance of cellular manufacturing (CM) systems has been rigorously investigated during the last two decades. The findings from these studies need to be systematically tabulated, given that they span a wide range of systems and experimental conditions. Some of the findings have also not been in agreement with the prescriptive literature on group technology (GT). No such survey of research exists to date. Attempts to fill the void by providing a taxonomy that categorizes these studies into simulation‐based, analytical and empirical studies. Also discusses past work in the context of various experimental factors and conditions, such as system configurations assumed, setup and operation times, scheduling rules, lot sizes and performance measures used. Summarizes major findings from each stream of literature from the point of view of both researchers and practitioners.
Value chain development
Authors: Barker R.C.
Published: July 2002

Describes the problems recorded between 1991 and 1995 when attempting to re‐engineer the value chains of a medium‐sized electrical equipment manufacturing company in the UK. To provide guidance during the re‐engineering process a time‐based framework for analysis has been developed; this is underpinned by throughput time reduction and time compression strategies. Development takes place within a post MRP environment with full kanban control of both internal and external supply chains in a cellular structure. Aims to provide researchers and practitioners with a diary of events and problems encountered during the restructuring process. Conclusions reveal a complex set of constraints which hinder development and little or no linkage to overall financial performance measurement.
A practical heuristic for effective buffer management
Authors: Hurley Simon F.
Published: July 2002

Buffers of work throughout a manufacturing facility enhance throughput. They protect a workstation against variations in processing times and against machine breakdowns of upstream workstations. However, buffer management is still thought to be an open problem: first there is no algebraic way of representing the relationship between buffer size and throughput, and second, the combinatorial nature inherent in the buffer design problem makes it difficult to develop an exact solution. These problems still exist today, as evidenced by the number of research papers that present sophisticated mathematics to solve this complex problem. Refutes all the above points. The buffer management method detailed does not use sophisticated mathematics impenetrable by the average production manager. Presents a heuristically‐based buffer management method effective at protecting throughput. The method will have advantageous effects on the size of buffers and the length of the production lead times, while still providing protection of the throughput rate.
Expert systems in production and operations management
Authors: Jayaraman Vaidyanathan , Srivastava Rajesh
Published: July 2002

Defines an expert system (ES) as a decision‐making tool that captures perishable expertise from an expert and stores this knowledge in the computer, and also as a computer system that can solve problems using human expertise and knowledge of the system environment. Notes that expert systems have found many applications in the area of production and operations management (POM). Explains the key role of the ES as a management tool to enhance productivity, improve quality, increase profits and capture expertise in many business settings. Highlights that the field of POM has a heavy orientation towards problem solving and decision making, hence it is a very fertile area for application for ES. Evaluates the current use of ES in POM and discusses future prospects.
Operations and production management on the Internet
Authors: Twigg David
Published: July 2002

Contends, contrary to some media portrayals of the Internet as a surfer’s playground without signposts, that the Internet does offer some direction to serious researchers seeking operations and production management information. Attempts to decipher the Internet as a medium for information gathering and to explain how it may be used as a resource for those in the operations management field. Aims to assist the Internet novice to find his or her point of embarkation and to introduce the more experienced user to new sources of useful data. Considers how the Internet may be used to promote the operations and production management discipline, and suggests ways in which both academics and practising managers may participate and so benefit.
Manufacturing competitive priorities and productivity: an empirical study
Authors: Noble Margaret A.
Published: July 2002

Compares and contrasts the competitive priorities (manufacturing capabilities) of high‐ and low‐productivity firms, from the perspective of the cumulative model for manufacturing competitiveness by using various statistical tests. Contends that the analysis of 561 firms worldwide demonstrates clearly differences in manufacturing strategy between the two productivity subsets, one of which is that better performing firms are the more likely to address multiple capabilities simultaneously; another is that these firms appear to have the more clearly defined competitive strategies. The high‐productivity firms are thus more supportive than are the low‐productivity firms of the cumulative model. Also discusses other findings.
The adoption and modelling of the strategic productivity management approach in manufacturing systems
Authors: Murugesh R. , Devadasan S.R. , Aravindan P. , Natarajan R.
Published: July 2002

Claims that failure to integrate productivity in total quality management (TQM) projects leads to ineffectiveness in management of manufacturing systems. Establishes a generalized manufacturing systems model based on the analysis of the results of literature and industrial surveys. Explores the need to adopt the strategic management approach to develop a productivity management model that could integrate with the existing successful quality management model. Identifies the conceptual and strategical elements of productivity and models them under the name “strategic productivity management” (SPM). Describes the pilot study carried out to validate SPM and explores the future direction of work.
Simulation analysis of maintenance policies in just‐in‐time production systems
Authors: Savsar Mehmet
Published: July 2002

Presents a simulation model and the results on the effects of different maintenance policies on performance measures of just‐in‐time production systems under different operating conditions. Develops a simulation model for a line, which consists of five stations in series and is operated according to demand from the last station. Shows that the introduction of preventive maintenance to the production and assembly machines on the line increases line performance under all conditions studied. The effects of maintenance are more pronounced in a longer line.
Quality manager involvement and quality performance
Authors: Chen Injazz J. , Paetsch Ken A. , Paulraj Antony
Published: July 2002

As the importance of quality managers has dramatically increased in the past two decades, it has been suggested that management of the quality function requires expertise in areas other than the quality field itself. Nevertheless, to date, extensive research has not been directed towards identifying the expertise required of a quality manager or the day‐to‐day functions which will enhance the manager’s ability to succeed. Tests empirically the quality manager’s effect on the quality performance of a firm, depending on the manager’s involvement in: strictly the quality field; quality‐related fields; and other functions. A cross‐sectional mail survey was employed and a causal model was developed to test seven propositions using path analysis (OLS). Results strongly suggest that quality managers’ main focus must be on the quality field, though they may perceive that their involvement in related fields could contribute significantly to the quality performance of their organizations.
The limited informativeness of resource discrepancy feedback to designers
Authors: Busby J.S.
Published: July 2002

Investigates the feedback to product designers of engineering and production costs in five industrial equipment firms. Reports that, despite the ubiquity of cost as an important design criterion, and the role that feedback should play in both individual and organizational learning, there were several significant problems: (1) Cost feedback was given as the difference between outcome and estimate in order to remove the effect of external factors, but this feedback then confounded the performance of estimation and design activities. (2) Distributional information in historical cost feedback was usually overlooked. The result was an excessive attention to detailed planning, consistent under‐estimation, and persistently negative feedback. (3) Designers and supervisors disagreed about the predictability of costs. Supervisors drew stronger inferences from feedback because they believed particular outcomes were more representative. (4) Engineering cost outcomes had poor reliability owing to the incentives to smooth cost discrepancies over different elements of the design; as a result it was unclear which were the problematic elements and opportunities were lost for calibrating the estimating process. This calibration also suffered from cost measurements being made at a higher level of aggregation than cost estimates. (5) The considerable delays between making design decisions and observing cost outcomes made it hard to learn cost‐effective design strategies through experience. There were instances where designers simply never found out how much it cost to engineer and produce their designs.
The overbooking problem in hotels with multiple tour‐operators
Authors: Hadjinicola George C. , Panayi Chryso
Published: July 2002

Examines the practice of overbooking at hotel and tour operator levels. By accepting more reservations than their available capacity, hotels hedge against the problem of cancellations. Hotels located in popular tourist resorts, allocate their capacity to multiple tour‐operators who through the vacation packages they offer, fill the hotels’ capacity. Shows that for this type of hotel, an overbooking policy applied at the hotel level and derived using the capacity of the hotel as a whole, gives better cost savings than when formulating an overbooking policy for each tour‐operator separately. The result of the analysis provides significant managerial implications since a hotel dealing with multiple tour‐operators, in devising its overbooking policy needs only to consider the occupancy of the hotel as a whole and not the performance of each tour‐operator. This simplicity is further reflected in the reduction of information required to be recorded.
A study of operations and marketing goal consensus in the banking industry
Authors: Nie Winter , Young Scott T.
Published: July 2002

Consensus building plays an important role in strategy formulation and implementation. Previous researchers have attempted to find a link between goal consensus among top management and organizational performance, mainly in manufacturing settings, with varying results. Few extant studies have examined goal consensus at the functional level. Aims to expand our knowledge of the goal consensus/performance relationship by focusing on the relationship between operations and marketing in the service setting. Attempts to identify the types of co‐ordination mechanisms that help achieve functional goal consensus between operations and marketing. Finds a positive relationship between goal consensus of the marketing and operations managers and performance based on return on equity and return on assets. Concludes that consensus is correlated with the use of process and programming co‐ordination mechanisms and not correlated with the use of interpersonal co‐ordination mechanisms.
Computer integrated manufacturing in German industry: aspirations and achievements
Authors: Milling Peter M.
Published: July 2002

Reports on a empirical investigation about the usage of computer integrated manufacturing in German hardware manufacturing. Results show a substantial variety in the current status of CIM implementations and indicate a large number of reasons that caused the firms to invest in CIM, the most prominent being a reduction in order processing time, an increase in scheduling effectiveness, and shorter delivery delays. There are strong synergistic effects between the CIM components. Although a step‐by‐step implementation of CIM is feasible and successful, only the integration of the individual pieces of equipment utilizes the full potential. The analysis of the data supports the hypothesis that the higher the degree of integration and automation, the better the objectives associated with CIM will be achieved.
Behavioural consequences of performance measures in cellular manufacturing
Authors: Daniels Robin C. , Burns N.D.
Published: July 2002

Presents some of the preliminary findings from research which has sought to identify performance drivers in manufacturing cells. A medium‐sized UK automotive component supplier which operates on a JIT basis was used for the research which has also examined the perceived and actual inter‐relationships between cell drivers and the effect of these on goal congruence. The results illustrate a fundamental difference in perception between production manager and the shop floor together with a shared misconception regarding perceived driver interactions. The result is a disjointed performance measurement system which fails to drive the continuous improvement required in the manufacturing cells.
Concurrent new product development: an empirical assessment
Authors: Maylor Harvey
Published: July 2002

Presents an analysis of the operationalization of concurrent new product development in a sample of UK manufacturing firms. Highlights the background to the change, the main organizational drivers for change and the associated tools and techniques, along with the benefits and adverse effects. Closer meeting customer needs and reduced time to market are key benefits, but the requirements for organizational change are causing significant adverse effects. Explores those factors associated with the achievement of benefits. Shows that the intensity of use of tools and techniques (though crucially not CAD/CAM) is the group of factors most closely associated with success.
An empirical investigation of enterprise‐wide integration of MRPII
Authors: Yusuf Yahaya Y. , Little David
Published: July 2002

The changing requirements of manufacturing exert considerable pressure on manufacturing resources while competition is intensified as a result of increasing new entrants into the market. The marketplace has consequently been turned into a “battlefield”. The competition for market share has driven improvement initiatives since the 1960s. The extension of MRPII to integrate with other advanced manufacturing technologies (AMT) that were hitherto isolated is considered as one of the initiatives embarked on by manufacturers in search of improved performance. Reports a major study of these initiatives and the associated benefits. Reviews integration and extension of MRPII and presents the state‐of‐the art in the UK companies from a survey of 120 manufacturing enterprises. Discusses some empirical findings about the benefits of integration and extension of MRPII with other AMTs.