Survey of similarity coefficient based methods as applied to the group technology configuration problem

This paper presents a survey of similarity-oriented metrics recently developed for use in addressing the GTCP (group technology configuration problem). This survey seeks to contribute to the theory underlying the problem by identifying themes in the evolution of these metrics in terms of structural form, and in terms of the form and levels of the information required for computation. The authors discuss these facets of the metrics in the context of their applications, and develop conjectures concerning the ‘best’ forms. They seek to develop insights into the nature of the GTCP by exploring the intrinsic nature of the metrics, with particular emphasis upon the type of information used in their computation, and structural similarities and dissimilarities in their functional specifications.