Flow reviews systematically improve manufacturing process logistics

IBM (San Jose, CA) faced problems in the manufacturing of a new product. It applied principles of computer-integrated manufacturing and continuous flow manufacturing to deal with the problems. Industrial engineers were tasked with layout of the material handling aspect of subassembly processes. A continuous flow manufacturing line was implemented after lower-level, work-in-progress logistics were worked out. Flow systems were modeled and simulated. The result was a layout of the facility, including tools, testers, and material handling equipment. Systematic reviews were held. It was concluded that flow reviews: aid in the analysis of material flow at the individual part level; are useful in showing a heterogeneous staff how a manufacturing line is intended to operate; help identify and resolve problems; and ensure the success of continuous flow manufacturing.