Abstract
The paper initially describes the creation of an investment analysis program whose use enables all the factors surrounding a CIM or AMT project to be quantified, including such important ‘intangible’ aspects as improved manufacturing flexibility or enhanced product quality. Following an historical review of the constituent elements of CIM, and a projection of these technologies into the near future, CAD, CAM, MRP and FMS are subsequently discussed in terms of overall system economics. From this base, it is shown that by analysing each sub-set of CIM with respect to its economic impact on a company, the appropriate level of investment for a specific situation can be correctly determined, and it becomes possible to predict how emerging technologies will develop. The paper concludes by discussing a selection of future research areas which must be successfully investigated if CIM is to become a working reality.

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