APPLYING AND ASSESSING 2 METHODS FOR MEASURING COMPLEXITY IN MANUFACTURING

Previous work in manufacturing has identified complexity as a relevant topic in this field. However, there is a high diversity of opinions o n what complexity is, why it should be measured and how this can be do ne. This paper aims to contribute to a better understanding of manufac turing complexity and of the relationship between the system's complex ity and its performance. Firstly, we identify the various aspects of m anufacturing complexity highlighted in the literature. Secondly, we de scribe two complementary methods for measuring complexity, and the ada ptation and application of these methods in a case study. The issues i nvolved in applying the methods and the insights gained are also discu ssed. The main criteria considered in assessing the two methods are: m ethodology, costs, feasibility, type of information required, and the type of results they provide. We conclude by outlining the requirement s that a complexity assessment method must meet in order to address al l the complexity issues identified.