Title: An investigation into the effects of computer-integrated manufacturing systems on the productivity of SMEs in Pakistan

Authors: Ghulam Yasin Shaikh, Hussain Bux Marri, Zahir Irani

Addresses: Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro – 76062, Sindh, Pakistan. ' Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro – 76062, Sindh, Pakistan. ' Brunel Business School, Brunel University West London, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB8 3PH, London

Abstract: The current dynamic and turbulent manufacturing environment has forced companies that compete globally to change their traditional methods of conducting business (Producer to consumer). Recent developments in manufacturing and business operations have led to the adoption of Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) technologies that are based on systems and processes that support global competitiveness, especially for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Organisations and SMEs in particular need to reevaluate every aspect of their manufacturing strategy and quickly move towards a CIM-based environment where manufacturing technologies, business strategies and processes are integrated together. This paper highlights the development of a CIM adoption model that has resulted from empirical work generated from SMEs in Pakistan. The model consists of parameters such as top management support, system integration, marketing and overall performance.

Keywords: implementation; CIM adoption; computer-integrated manufacturing; SMEs; small and medium enterprises; business; empirical analysis; Pakistan.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVCM.2008.016119

International Journal of Value Chain Management, 2008 Vol.2 No.1, pp.76 - 89

Published online: 06 Dec 2007 *

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