Integration in production management systems

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The concept of integration and its many different meanings in relation to production systems is explored from varying angles in this volume. This covers integration of not only computer systems, but also integration of design, planning and control functions. In several papers it is stressed that integration is not a goal 'per se', because any increase of integration may cause loss of flexibility: flexibility requires not only integration but also clear separation of functions. Some papers treat specific integration projects, others deal with integration as a more general methodological problem. There are also state-of-the-art presentations on EDI, Generic Product Modelling and other IT-applications in production.This practically oriented book should be of particular interest to researchers, engineers, consultants, teachers and students in the field of production management and IT and those involved in industrial R&D.