Agile manufacturing research: Accomplishments and opportunities

Agile manufacturing is a new expression that is used to represent the ability of a producer of goods and services to thrive in the face of continuous change. These changes can occur in markets, in technologies, in business relationships and in all facets of the business enterprise. This paper discusses the genesis of several of the Agile Manufacturing Research Institutes (AMRIs) and their on-going activities and results to date. A vision for agile manufacturing research is articulated and initial accomplishments identified. Additional research needs are also discussed.