Defining a modular approach for mapping and documenting of Manufacturing Engineering process.

Abstract

Traditionally, enterprise and functional process understanding were not considered a priority in the Aerospace industry. The build of an aircraft was carried out sequentially. Now, due to increased competitive and customer pressure, time to market has been reduced. Work must be carried out concurrently to satisfy these new competitive forces. In recent years there has been a focus on Business Process Reengineering (BPR). The solution is to have a clear idea of sequence and clear toplevel process defined. Therefore it is imperative to have a clear framework to capture the process. The research demonstrates the development of a methodology to capture process within a major aircraft manufacturer. The research starts by looking at the present practices across the whole organisation. Examination of the present working practices within the organisation facilitated an objective analysis of three modelling techniques within different working groups. This fragmentation was addressed through the presentation of a generic framework. Condition of Supply processes was modelled as a demonstration to the organisations’ practitioners. Through consultation with practitioners from the working groups framework benefits were realised; • Understanding of mapping organisational processes • Generic technique for capturing working processes • Continuation of framework • Future opportunities. Conclusions highlight that the proposed framework is adaptable and easy to use, addressing user requirements; top management and operational level staff. Furthermore maps generated utilising the framework provides capability of drilling down, detailing lower level processes.MRe