The role of the systems integrator in CIM

The role of the systems integrator, in the Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) business enterprise, is one that interfaces with each level of the entire organization to achieve the goals and objectives of automating that business within a logical common database. This paper focuses on the role of the systems integrator at each of the organization levels required to provide the framework for the evolution of an environment structured to achieve the philosophical objectives of the long-range "Factory of the Future" program. This integrated concept is a dynamic, regenerative entity that will be constantly evolving and growing with the enterprise into a sophisticated, advanced social/technological system. The time-phased orchestration of such a plan requires the systems integrator to have a role at each of the manufacturing business enterprise levels. This requires individuals with an experience background that is diversified in the fields of general management, marketing, design engineering, information systems, manufacturing engineering, production and industrial engineering, project management, materials and purchasing, and production operations.