Title: Advanced manufacturing technology: an analysis of practice

Authors: Peter Weill, Danny A. Samson, Amrik S. Sohal

Addresses: The University of Melbourne, Graduate School of Management, 200 Leicester Street, Carlton, Victoria 3053, Australia. ' The University of Melbourne, Graduate School of Management, 200 Leicester Street, Carlton, Victoria 3053, Australia. ' Graduate School of Management, Monash University, Victoria, Australia

Abstract: The contribution of advanced manufacturing technology (AMT) to the competitiveness of an enterprise is of interest to both practising managers and researchers. This study presents a simple framework of AMT management derived from the literature. Fourteen propositions flow from this framework which were tested against the experience of the Australian manufacturing sector. Four separate studies, reflecting the practice of AMT investment and implementation, were analysed and compared with the propositions. Findings include a strong link between AMT investment and business strategy and an overwhelming reliance on |normal investment criteria| when making AMT investment decisions. Many firms found it difficult to recruit staff skilled in the use of AMT, and took several years from identifying the need for a particular AMT to successful implementation.

Keywords: advanced manufacturing technology; Australia; computer-integrated manufacturing; CIM; flexible manufacturing systems; FMS; manufacturing strategy; technology strategy; AMT investment; business strategy; AMT implementation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTM.1991.025893

International Journal of Technology Management, 1991 Vol.6 No.3/4, pp.335 - 353

Published online: 25 May 2009 *

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