Experiences of a small to medium size enterprise in the design and implementation of manufacturing cells

Small and medium size enterprises (SMEs) have gained competitive advantage by using Just-in-Time, Total Quality Management, and Information Technology . Cellular Manufacturing (CM) has received less attention from SMEs. This p aper reports the findings of a case study of the application of Group Techn ology in an SME. A framework for the design and implementation of Cellular Manufacturing Systems (CMSs) is proposed. The framework is examined and exp lained in the context of the case study. The first part of the paper examin es the nature of CM as well as its strategic value to manufacturing firms. The second part focuses on the design and implementation of CMSs. The third part presents a framework for the design and implementation of CMSs. Final ly, a case study conducted at a small company in England is used in demonst rating the application of the framework.