Systematic layout planning aided by multicriteria decision analysis

Abstract

The proper use of physical space in a factory is an important operational factor since it establishes its primary organization as well as the material and information flow patterns, with long run impacts. In order to systematize an adequate plant layout, methods for macro-space planning such as SLP (Systematic Layout Planning) have been proposed to support the development of layout alternatives. However, due to the generation of sub-optimal solutions with different pros and cons, the process of determining the best layout alternative becomes critical to assure the company's efficiency and flexibility, when facing different market scenarios. In this paper we propose the use of multicriteria decision support tools in conjunction with SLP. The multicriteria analysis proposed is illustrated in a case study from the automotive industry. The company analyzed is expanding its physical area to house new machines and optimize material flows. Nine different macro-layout alternatives were generated and the best overall alternative was evaluated in relation to seven criteria using AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process).