Information systems as a key facilitator of manufacturing flexibility: a documented application

The desire to exploit new process technology and the need to reduce costs and throughput times, to accelerate new product introductions, and to insure against market uncertainties have contributed to the increased importance manufacturing enterprises attach to manufacturing flexibility. The Manufacturing Management Information System (MMIS) is a central component in the manufacturing enterprise's quest to achieve these key objectives yet its role is frequently neglected when formulating strategy. This paper explores the operational mismatch which often arises between the preferred mode of operation of the MMIS and that dictated by the enterprise's developing and changing strategic and hence operational requirements. Illustrated by a case study, the implications of the changes to the business environment currently being experienced by manufacturing industry on the future development and role of the MMIS are considered.