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Computer systems are the major reason today for the dramatic changes that business and industry are making in their facilities and plants and in the way companies are managing their operations. The concept of the automated plant depends on computer technology. So, also, are management information systems. Both of these developments are capable of increasing productivity significantly in those companies that use advanced technology effectively.
Yet the advantage and benefits of computers are not limited to companies that are actively involved in new technology. Computers also contribute to major improvements in the productivity of companies that are still taking steps to automate their plant processes and operations.
Automation is a proven way to higher productivity made possible and practical by computers. Microtechnology, in particular, has put automated equipment within the reach of many companies. It's not necessary to make a big investment to get started on automated systems. Management can develop a plan, then implement it in steps, meanwhile gaining the productivity increases that the program promises.
While computer systems enable facilities to make worthwhile improvements in many functions and disciplines, their most important contribution is what they do to increase overall productivity. Whether you are a supervisor in production, engineering, marketing, purchasing, finance or any other field that relies on automated systems to an extent, you must become updated in this technology. Companies usually expect supervisors to play key roles in gaining the optimum benefits from its data processing equipment.
The opportunities for increasing productivity in the plant through computer systems fit into two well-known activities: planning and scheduling. Some workers, however, may have to be sold on how the computer can help them to be more efficient. To convince these workers, you should:
* Point out that the computer enables you to keep track of raw materials, storeroom supplies, machine parts, repair items, process status and finished products.
* Explain how the computer aids in assuring that all the items needed to carry out a process or project are readily available.
* Tell them that the computer assists in scheduling production runs and maintenance work.
* Show them that all the particulars of a production run and a repair job are contained in the computer data base. This information is available to them...