INTEGRATED DECISION SUPPORT AND EXPERT SYSTEMS IN A COMPUTER INTEGRATED MANUFACTURING ENVIRONMENT

In a computer integrated manufacturing (CIM) environment, well planning, control and operational process require both expert knowledge of the area, and powerful decision support capabilities. This paper discusses the features of decision support systems and expert systems, and their integration to support the major functions from marketing and strategic level considerations to manufacturing operational planning and process. From the hierarchical structure of information flow in a company, this paper attempts to find the best way of combining decision support systems with expert systems in enhancing the planning, control and operational functions in a CIM environment.