Charles H. Falkner

Multi-Attribute Decision Models in the Justification of CIM Systems

ABSTRACT A general approach to building an effective justification process around a multi—attribute decision model is suggested which incorporates factory performance measurements to focus on difficult to quantify strategic and tactical benefits from Computer Integrated Manufacturing. This approach differs from previous work in that: attributes are rationally designed performance measures which form the basis for a formal feedback system, and attributes are selected to represent the spectrum of benefits known to be relevant to CIM systems. The paper focuses on selecting an appropriate set of attributes to form the decision model for evaluating the alternatives to be considered in the justification process.

Multi-attribute decision analysis for justifying flexible automation

The need to modify traditional engineering economic analysis techniques to justify flexible automation systems is explored. The approaches to justification using multi-attribute decision analysis are reviewed and discussed.

Systems Analysis and Cost Effectiveness in Planning

Systems analysis means many things to many people. Here, systems analysis is interpreted as the systematic seeking out and evaluating of alternatives. Cost effectiveness is an approach for comparing relatively similar alternatives. The distinction between the two is one of scope and structure. Systems analysis is used to attack complex, ill-structured problems where many elements of the problem are non-quantifiable. In contrast, cost effectiveness is applied to the evaluation of alternatives where cost and other criteria are measurable. Systems analysis and cost effectiveness are similar in that neither technique is designed to arrive at a decision itself. The primary objective is to present the decision-maker with relevant information concerning the effect of alternative courses of action. The decision-maker still makes the final judgment.

Computer-based man-job matching: Current practice and applicable research

IN THIS article, we describe and compare current practice and applicable research in the area of computer-based man-job matching systems. Our purpose, besides being informative, is to point out that a good deal of applicable research has not been incorporated, for the most part, into the current systems and that this state of affairs is undesirable and unncessary. A comparison of current practice with the applicable research indicates that future computer-based matching systems will be much more sophisticated than those presently operating. This is not to suggest that the present systems should not have commenced operation until more sophisticated systems, based on the most recent research, were ready for implementation. There are at least four reasons why the contrary is true.