Multi-attribute decision models for justification of cellular manufacturing systems

There is a general challenge offered to the field of engineering economics by the introduction of advanced manufacturing systems. Typically, the traditional approaches do not account for the significant intangible benefits offered by cellular manufacturing systems. In this paper, an attempt has been made to overcome the above-mentioned deficiencies by presenting two multi-attribute decision models – analytical hierarchy process and performance value analysis – for the justification of CMS. The usefulness of the proposed models is demonstrated through a case situation.