Implementing CIM systems in SMEs

Abstract

Many Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) worldwide today are looking for a means of solving internal and external problems and taking actions to secure competitive advantage. Several benefits can be obtained by implementing Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) systems. This paper discusses the implementation problems of CIM systems in SME and as a solution, the paper presents a generic IDEF0 model for implementing CIM projects in SMEs. The model summarises and reforms the implementation procedures of CIM in a structural model involving several activities and rules. The developed model demonstrates how SMEs can begin to adopt the new technology and integrate their organisational functions. It also guides how this type of organisation can start planning CIM systems, doing much of the project tasks in-house to reduce the implementation costs.