Business Processes and Operations focuses on the impact that new technology has on organizations. They are developing tools to assist in the analysis of business change and are devising information and manufacturing systems to support change. Virtual Prototyping is seen as the key to new product development. Currently, research is being conducted in collaborative engineering, product data sharing, layered manufacturing and simulation. The Institute has acquired a system for producing accurate solid models using laser technology.
Education is one of the best techniques for technology transfer.
A special effort in this regard is the Keyworth Innovation Network. This is a virtual science park that employs computer and networking technology to provide consultancy, and educational and information services. Simultaneous engineering is one of the institute s major themes. This project is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and has several industrial collaborators. To accomplish this they are identifying the information and procedures necessary to support concurrent design for both function and manufacturing.