Engineering automation for the SME: A viable tool for “mass” customization

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Strategic Direction

ISSN: 0258-0543

Online from: 2002

Subject Area: Strategy

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Document Information:
Title:	Engineering automation for the SME: A viable tool for “mass” customization
Source:	Strategic Direction, Vol. 21 Iss: 1
pp:	33 - 35
Keywords:	Computer aided design, Customization, Deductive databases, Knowledge management, Product design, Time to market
Article type:	Viewpoint
DOI:	10.1108/02580540510571755 (Permanent URL)
Publisher:	Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Abstract:	Purpose – Explains how SMEs have discovered how to avoid high investment cost attributed to the implementation costs of knowledge based engineering or engineering automation software. Design/methodology/approach – A study of how SMEs have developed alternative design automation using standard CAD and Microsoft Office programs. Findings – Using design technology has reduced custom design lead times for particular items from weeks to hours, with customers now being provided with drawings the next day, or even graphics via e-mail the same day. Originality/value – Has allowed the company used in the study to deliver products that now cost from 12-15 percent less than its competition.