Analysis and design of virtual enterprises

Abstract

Virtual Enterprise (VE) is an organizational business concept.Its key ingredients are collaboration among a set of member companies and integration of their competencies, which are needed for developing a new product or service.This concept is in response to the ever-increasing demand on the manufacturing enterprise to react quickly to changes in the market conditions and become agile enterprises.This thesis presents a quantitative study on the life cycle of Virtual Enterprises.Specifically, it covers the design and management phases.These two phases are modeled using system engineering as a foundation.This has led to the development of two new methods for designing and managing Virtual Enterprises.The design method uses Axiomatic Design Theory and a methodology for complex large systems.The management method is based on Robust Design principles. DedicationTo my sister Georgina Mercedes Guerra Guerra.I am confident that wherever she is, she will enjoy this moment as much as I do.To my parents