Digital Lean Manufacture (DLM): A new management methodology for production operations integration

Abstract

A methodology for the systematic integration of digital manufacuring is presented through Digital Lean Manufacturing (DLM). DLM offers a new management methodology for production operations integration that achieves vertical and horizontal integration of process, tools and systemic manufacturing effort. Vertical integration was achieved through the hierarchical structuring of effort according to business process, integrated crossfunctional manufacturing processes, specific manufacturing activity and knowledge capture. Horizontal integration was achieved through the mapping of processes within functional swimlanes and through the specific activity mapping of the Digital, Lean and Manufacturing functions in particular. Validation elements have also been presented in this initial positioning of DLM as new and novel management methodology for production operations integration. © 2008 Springer-Verlag London Limited.