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Robert Allison Master's Thesis - Chapter 5 - CONCLUSIONS

5. CONCLUSIONS


5.1 Summary

In this thesis, a definition was established to describe what CIM could be for the apparel manufacturing industry. Along with this definition, a methodology for implementing such a CIM system was discussed. The methodology was then tested by implementing a prototype CIM system. The prototype satisfied the goal of the thesis by integrating the information flow in a CIM system for apparel.


5.2 Results

The steps for implementing a prototype were successfully completed a the Textile/Clothing Technology Corporation (TC)2. Below are the major results:

(1) A study of (TC)2 was conducted. The functions performed there were identified and the information associated with each of these functions was determined.

(2) IDEF0 models were developed to represent all of the functions and the information flow between them. IDEF1 models were then developed to represent the exact relationships between the groups of information.

(3) A relational database was then designed, using the R:BASE Relational Database Management System, to automate the information flow and relationships that were described in the models. With this information automation, (TC)2's Production Schedule and Cut Orders could be generated with a minimum of user-input.


5.3 Recommendations

There are several areas needing further study to help CIM reach its potential. Below are listed some of the more pressing areas:




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