Implementing Manufacturing Technology: A Manufacturing Strategy Approach

If the use of Advanced Manufacturing Technology (AMT) is to be successful it is vital to give proper consideration to implementation. Failure usually results because implementation has not been carried out in relation to strategic objectives. As a consequence technical considerations, e.g. cost reductions, have predominated. Parallels are drawn between the lack of emphasis on implementation in the literature on Materials Requirements Planning (MRP). A strategic input is needed if the full potential of the technology is to be realised. A model for strategic implementation of AMT and its associated procedures is proposed.