This title was first published in 2000: A consideration of continuous improvement (CI) practice and performance. It brings together the results of a survey conducted simultaneously in a number of countries, with the express intention of building up understanding of how companies throughout the world are managing the process of implementing and, perhaps more importantly, sustaining, the process of CI. In so doing, the book offers a perspective on the similarities and differences of experience in a number of countries and sheds light on possible generic problems that managers throughout the world will have to grapple with if they are to take advantage of the true potential offered by their significant investments in human resources.

This project-oriented facilities design and material handling reference explores the techniques and procedures for developing an efficient facility layout, and introduces some of the state-of-the-art tools involved, such as computer simulation. A "how-to," systematic, and methodical approach leads readers through the collection, analysis and development of information to produce a quality functional plant layout. Lean manufacturing; work cells and group technology; time standards; the concepts behind calculating machine and personnel requirements, balancing assembly lines, and leveling workloads in manufacturing cells; automatic identification and data collection; and ergonomics. For facilities planners, plant layout, and industrial engineer professionals who are involved in facilities planning and design.