Strategic planning, transfer and implementation of Advanced Manufacturing Technologies (AMT). Development of an integrated process plan

This paper concentrates on the planning requirements for the adoption of Advanced Manufacturing Technologies (AMT) in order to safeguard their successful implementation. Using the Cypriot manufacturing industry as a case study information is extracted regarding the implementation of Advanced Manufacturing Technologies. The research results are analyzed and are used in the development of a planning model for the acquisition of AMT. This model provides the framework for the correct justification and implementation of AMT to ensure Technical, Manufacturing and Business Success. It incorporates all the planning procedures and implementation parameters to be followed in order to ensure successful AMT adoption and implementation. It establishes the main reasons behind the successes or failures of the technologies and provides the methodology that can be adopted by the manufacturers to assist them in the justification and implementation of Advanced Manufacturing Technologies in their manufacturing environment.  2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.