Evaluating flexibility of alternative FMS designs-A comparative measure

Crucial for a successful implementation of FMS is the selection of the most appropriate system from available alternatives. To aid management in the decision-making process, a ‘measure’ is proposed that ranks different competing FMS designs according to their inherent flexibility as they relate to the maximum flexibility possible stipulated by the state-of-the-art. In developing the proposed ‘measure’, the attributes governing the flexibility of FMS major components are defined. A notion of ‘strings’ representing alternative production routes for different products is set forth. The method allows the integration of the eight points of flexibility stated by Browne et al into a single comprehensive flexibility indicator. An example is given to illustrate the method.