A Methodology for the Implementation of Integrated CAPM Systems

Abstract

Manufacturing competitiveness is highly dependent upon the control systems which regulate the flow of work through the factory. Competitiveness calls for the required output at the most economic cost in terms of both operating expenses and the level of working capital. Computer Aided Production Management systems aim to provide this control, and are therefore commonly used in all but the smallest manufacturing companies. However, the implementation of CAPM systems has often been problematic, and the need for a methodology to address this area was recognised in a major research initiative. This paper describes the methodology which was produced by the authors, which will be seen to place emphasis upon the business and organisational context for the system together with the human factors such as employee participation and involvement which affect the success of the implementation of the system. The CAPM system is redefined as a system which contains both human and computer elements, and must be designed and implemented as such.

Due to space limitations, a description of only the principal elements of the methodology is given, together with a short account of the operation of the process in two recent applications.