June 1997, Volume 14, No. 6 Manufacturer's Library

This book provides proven, real-world techniques — unencumbered by complex mathematics and weighty theory — that you can put into practice to improve your manufacturing processes. Focusing exclusively on factory-level problems and solutions, this hands-on guide gives you plainly written explanations and specific instructions on how to set up and execute an efficient, nimble and high quality manufacturing system.

The book covers the state-of-the-art in manufacturing, including ISO 9000, forecasting, scheduling, lead-time management, concurrent engineering, and manufacturing information systems. It helps you solve such difficulties as high inventory levels, unreliable sourcing, excessive overtime, and slow turnaround. With each technique discussed, the book provides a list of dos and don'ts that will help you successfully put methods into practice.

Williams is technical manager of material management and manufacturing engineering with AT&T (Clark, N.J.).