Total or framework planning? Alternative systems of computerized production control in mechanical engineering

Abstract

In recent years computer-aided production control systems have become available also for small-batch mechanical engineering. Using these systems, the scheduling of production can be better planned than has been the case using the classic method with a foreman, which has long represented the typical form of organisation in mechanical engineering production. In the following contribution important results of an empirical investigation into the use of EDP-aided production control systems in mechanical engineering firms in West Germany have been summarised. Two different management concepts have been focussed on: one is ‘total planning and control’ (of the production process), and the other ‘framework planning and control’. We will show the consequence production control systems installed according to these concepts are having upon foremen, workers, control personnel and operating results. In addition, indications are put forward for discussion concerning the design of computer-aided production control systems taking into account the interests of all groups in the firm.