This paper presents the results of a conceptual study and simulation experimentation aimed at understanding the impact of Decision-Information Synchronization (DIS) in Flexible Systems. TI1e study shows that the flexibility enabled lead-time reduction in flexible systems is influenced by DIS of various types in various ways. It is thus important to appreciate the implications on knowledge management in flexibility driven entetprises. The knowledge of conventional FMS requires to be modified and managing the new knowledge is very important In our view most flexible enterprises face DIS scenarios in real systems. For instance periodic decision-making is a common practice in many flexible systems. However, this leads to important DIS conditions. Hence it is important to develop new DIS based models of flexible systems and show the new knowledge explicitly to the managers. Towards this we propose a conceptual model for DIS scenario with period decision making policy operating in a period status-monitoring mode. Based on this we identify five important elements viz. decision delay, information period, decision period, information delay and decision information lag, tJ13t could intluence decision information synchronization. The impact of these DIS elements on the routing flexibility based lead-time reduction are studied. 1l1e studies indicated tJ13t DIS has significant effect on the lead-lime performance in the flexible system. In general, witl1 the increasing levels of flexibility, the lead-time reduces and thereby the performance oftl1e manufacturing system improves. The eflect of DIS related delays, is to reduce the performance enhancement Hence, for a given level of flexibility, the lead-time performance will be lower for a higher level of DIS delay. The studies further indicated that, beyond certain level of DIS delay, the use of flexibility becomes counter productive. Under these conditions, increase in flexibility levels may result in lower performance. Managing this new knowledge is very imp01tant. Typically managers invest in greater flexibility hoping that it will improve performance. The models of the nature discussed are needed by KM professionals to help change such mindsets. 1his paper aims to contribute in this direction.
Decision-Information Synchronization, Decision Delay, Information Period, Decision Period, Decision Information Lag, Flexible System, Knowledge Management.
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