Experiences with FMS in the UK

Successful use of flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) depends on a company adopting a flexible approach to its management and organisation. This technology has now begun to diffuse widely and to be used in all major developed countries and a small number of developing nations. A comprehensive survey of UK organisations where FMS has been installed or is planned reveals that significant benefits are achievable but the need for a total approach to the problem of implementation is paramount. Technical problems also need to be overcome.