An empirical study of facility layout using a modified SLP procedure

Although many new technologies have been developed in facilities design, the systematic layout planning (SLP) procedure is the most widely used among enterprises and the academic world. The practical applications in a traditional SLP require intricate steps yet their results lack stability. It is difficult to attain reasonable results from alternatives derived via traditional SLP. This study proposes concepts and algorithms such as grouping, compounding, and hypothetical distance to modify procedures and enhance practicality in traditional SLP. The proposed modifications were applied to a case study. The results were superior to solutions derived from computer software simulations and by supervisors of the case company. This study believes that the proposed modifications and procedures can enhance the enterprise's ability in facility design.