Modeling the Enablers of Flexible Manufacturing Systems Using Interpretive Structural Modeling

The objective of the study is to identify the interrelationship between enablers of flexible manufacturing system (FMS) whose richness plays a vital role in successful FMS implementation. The present study employed ISM methodology. ISM is an interactive planning methodology whereby a set of directly and indirectly related variables are structured into a comprehensive systematic model.

Variables such as FMS Workforce Commitment, FMS Workforce Motivation, Adaptation, Relationship management between in-house team&vendor, Skills of FMS workforce, Experience of FMS workforce, Cross Training, Continuous Experimentation, Cross functional cooperation, Team Building, and Job Rotation have been identified and categorised under enablers which will help managers and decision makers in enhancing productivity and profitability. Finally, the paper interprets FMS enablers in terms of driving and dependence powers that have been carried out.