Intelligent Manufacturing € April € 1996 € Vol. 2 € No. 4

Manufacturer's Library

Software and the Agile Manufacturer, by Brian H. Maskell, Productivity Press, 424 pages, $50, ISBN 1-56327-046-3

Agile manufacturing is a term that has come into prominence in the last few years to describe responsive, flexible manufacturing that can deliver better products, faster, at lower cost (see Intelligent Manufacturing, May 1995). Manufacturers and distributors shifting from traditional to more agile, world-class approaches usually find the transition hindered rather than helped by computers. This book addresses the question of how computerization can aid the transition and help a manufacturing company work better.

The book shows how computer systems and software designed for individual departments or functions can be adapted to create a world-class manufacturing environment that is integrated company-wide. It does so by focusing on broad objectives and issues, while at the same time exploring how software systems apply to each area of the operation.

Utilizing case studies from manufacturers such as General Motors, Harley-Davidson, Motorola and Xerox, the book explores the current software movement, from MRPII (both its benefits and limitations) to alternative methods being implemented by companies trying to match their software to new world-class methodologies.

Implementing a Lean Management System, by Thomas L. Jackson with Karen R. Jones, Productivity Press, 150 pages, $65, ISBN 1-56327-085-4

Too often manufacturing companies experience a huge gulf between top management's vision for the future and the day-to-day activities of everyone else in the firm. This book shows how to support a company's transformation to lean production by linking strategic planning to companywide improvement activities that further the corporate vision.

Lean management is a variation on the Japanese concept of hoshin management, a strategic planning method used by companies to disseminate TQM goals. The book offers a practical methodology based on continuous improvement methods, cross-functional management and employee involvement. The entire system is supported by documents and forms that guide the reader in applying the concepts.
Click here to return to Table of Contents for the Intelligent Manufacturing April issue.