The Use of a Computer in a Manufacturing System

Summary

This paper details some limitations of the conventional approach to the computerisation of production planning and control. A new approach for the rational use of a computer in the creation of an overall management information system is described. This is based upon a case study in which the establishment of manufacturing sections facilitated the efficient utilisation of a computer by reducing the number of input points to the minimum, thus creating the correct interface between software (the computer) and hardware (the machines). It is demonstrated that a well-designed manufacturing system is enhanced when a computer is correctly used for production planning and the generation of management information in such a way that timely action can be taken to rectify undesirable situations. This approach is essentially less costly and yet more efficient to operate than conventional systems, and it can be seen that a small batch manufacturer can use a computer without incurring any major risks.