Title: A flexible and intelligent software tool for process planning and enterprise performance enhancement
Authors: Ederson Carvalhar Fernandes; Jaqueline Sebastiany Iaksch; Sandro Jessé Ferreira Tabor; Luiz Gustavo Romanel; Liam Brown; Milton Borsato
Addresses: Mechanical and Materials Engineering Department, Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná (UTFPR), Curitiba, 81280-340, Brazil ' Mechanical and Materials Engineering Department, Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná (UTFPR), Curitiba, 81280-340, Brazil ' Urban Market Company, Curitiba, 81330-220, Brazil ' CNH Industrial, Curitiba, 81170-300, Brazil ' Engineering & Information Technology Department, Technological University of Shannon (TUS), Limerick, V94 EC5T, Ireland ' Mechanical and Materials Engineering Department, Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná (UTFPR), Curitiba, 81280-340, Brazil
Abstract: Companies often employ strategic tools to refine production processes in pursuing operational excellence. Value stream mapping (VSM), known for its holistic view of workflows, is a popular choice. However, traditional approaches can be time-consuming and prone to inaccuracies. In today's digital era, innovative solutions have emerged. This study introduces a dynamic web application aimed at enhancing engineering practices. Using data analysis and machine learning, it uncovers valuable insights and suggests process improvements. A Docker-based virtualisation system was implemented to ensure seamless operation. The application was field-tested at an agricultural equipment company in Brazil. The evaluation identified four promising alternatives for process enhancement, all of which received approval from the company's engineers. This research underscores the potential of digital tools and decision support systems in enhancing production processes. The dynamic web application, powered by advanced analytics, offers benefits for companies seeking to streamline their production workflows and unlock new avenues for efficiency.
Keywords: production; monitoring; enhancement; VSM; value stream mapping; Docker; web system.
DOI: 10.1504/IJASM.2025.144176
International Journal of Agile Systems and Management, 2025 Vol.18 No.1, pp.74 - 111
Received: 13 Nov 2023
Accepted: 14 Aug 2024
Published online: 30 Jan 2025 *