Managing Flexible Automation
探讨可编程自动化系统带来的制造柔性对管理技术的挑战，涵盖战略、项目评估、变革管理、实施和劳动力五个方面，帮助管理者理解如何利用柔性自动化的潜力。
Management techniques are faced with the challenge of keeping up with the greater manufacturing flexibility made possible by the development of programmable automation systems. These challenges arise in 5 areas: 1. strategy, 2. project evaluation, 3. managing change, 4. implementation of automated capabilities, and 5. labor force considerations. In the first case, dynamic rather than static perspectives on process technology are required, with strategy being the foundation of excellence in all functions, not just at the general manager level. Project evaluation should focus on the costs of failing to pursue an investment opportunity, not just on the costs of pursuing such opportunities. Management must be able to identify the kinds of organizational changes needed for making use of the full technological potential of flexibility. Implementation requires an organizational culture with a commitment to learning. The labor force must become more proactive since the main task is problem solving.