Process-Oriented Production Planning and Control: Factors That Influence System Design

Abstract

This research describes how five production planning and control functions are accomplished by successful information systems in process industries, identifies factors that influence the design of the systems that support these functions, and models the relationships between influential factors and planning and control systems. A case study methodology, using previsit questionnaires and on-site interviews, was used to collect detailed information in six firms on how their repeatedly successful production planning and control functions were accomplished and to identify factors that influenced their choice of specific methods. These data were summarized and relationships between planning and control functions and influential factors were identified graphically. Nineteen implications summarize relationships and provide specific directions for future research.