Next Generation Manufacturing Methods and Techniques

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Summary: Thoughtful Perspectives on Production Process in the Future
Review: Next Generation Manufacturing (NGM) is the name of both this book and the authors' organization so, obviously, Jordan and Michel believe in the concept. The material is based on the U.S.-based Next Generation Manufacturing Project (NGMP) and the International Intelligent Manufacturing Systems (IMS) program. Together, these initiatives provide a consistent, worldwide vision for global manufacturing. This book examines that vision with rigor and eloquence. The NGMP identifies the key drivers that shape the future competitive environment and the attributes of a successful competitor in that environment. It then characterizes the capabilities ("imperatives") required to meet the drivers and to thrive. The "imperatives" are grouped into four operational strategies: 1. Building a strong workforce; 2. Developing and implementing advanced knowledge processes; 3. Using advanced manufacturing systems, processes, equipment, and technology; and 4. Integrating competitive strengths. NGM is explored here in three ways: through the eyes of the fictional CEO of a fictional large manufacturing company, as he prepares for a planning meeting with his management team; applying NGM as the CEO sorts through all the issues the management team must consider; and enabling readers to learn by doing - through exercises that simulate real-life business situations in which they are challenged to make decisions rooted in NGM principles. From these exercises, readers see firsthand positive results of applying NGM. Next Generation Manufacturing is must reading, not only for everyone involved in manufacturing from the supervisory level up, but for anyone else who works closely with manufacturing companies. Management consultants and other service providers, for instance, can be much more helpful when they understand what NGM is, how it works, and what it can accomplish with effective management and sufficient capital resources.