Implementing advanced manufacturing technology in Singapore : an empirical analysis.

Abstract

Technology innovation, trade liberalization and the globalization of business are transforming the nature of manufacturing, particularly in such sectors as electronics, aerospace and automotive, which traditionally rely heavily on advanced manufacturing technologies (AMT) to maintain their competitive advantage. AMT such as flexible manufacturing system (FMS) is used by small industrial economies to decrease - production cost, labor force, capital tied to inventories and delivery time, as well as to increase - delivery service, profit margin and flexibility. The objective of this research is to identify the critical factors for the implementation of AMT by firms in small industrial economies like Singapore. An analytical framework to identify the critical determinants for a successful AMT implementation is presented.