An intelligent tool for process redesign: Manufacturing supply-chain applications

Manufacturing enterprises face intensive competitive pressures, and many fi rms are forced to redesign processes just to stay even with the competition . But process redesign is an expensive, time-consuming, and labor-intensive activity, and first-generation computer-based tools are inadequate for red esign today. Alternatively, knowledge-based systems and intelligent tools h ave the ability to address the key intellectual activities required for eff ective process redesign. The research described in this article addresses a n intelligent redesign tool called KOPeR. The article describes the KOPeR d esign and implementation and highlights its use and mechanics in the contex t of a manufacturing supply-chain example. It then turns to application of KOPeR as a redesign tool in the field, through an "industrial-strength" ree ngineering engagement, to redesign major supply-chain processes. The field results reveal insights into the use, utility, and potential of this tool i n procurement, manufacturing, and beyond. The article closes with a number of promising future directions for related research.