Improving the implementation effectiveness of cellular manufacturing: a comprehensive framework for practitioners

Abstract

Abstract In today's competitive environment cellular manufacturing (CM) is a well-known strategy in improving manufacturing performance. To obtain the full benefits that CM has to offer successful implementation is a critical factor. Evidence indicates that firms converting to CM often struggle with implementation and achieve results that are less than anticipated. A comprehensive review of implementation literature was undertaken and a multi-phase model developed and evaluated through a case study. The framework recognizes the importance of both technical and human aspects of CM and provides practitioners with a better understanding of the various phases in the implementation process, including the many activities and issues which need to be considered for each step. In the case study company, implementation of CM not only provided many of the benefits associated with this form of manufacturing but also allowed operators to become a value-adding link in respect to process and product improvement and new product development. Keywords: Cellular manufacturingImplementationLiterature reviewCompetitive manufacturingCase study