Understanding the operation of a comprehensive CIM solution requires knowledge of traditional manufacturing practices, a look at the current state of CIM, and consideration of how technology and operating procedures may change in the future. The integration of product design techniques and manufacturing fundamental principles, along with a look at changing operations and information systems that support CIM throughout the enterprise, make Computer-Integrated Manufacturing unique.

This text is written to provide the technologist or engineer with a complete overview of the computer-integrated enterprise. It effectively accomplishes this goal by:

describing the different types of manufacturing systems or production strategies used by industries worldwide, and showing how the technology is used to solve actual industrial problems
going beyond the description of automated machines and software solutions to discuss all factors necessary for a successful CIM implementation
discussing the impact of CIM on all major elements of an enterprise–product design, shop floor technology, and manufacturing production and operational control systems
providing a convincing argument for implementing CIM so that the enterprise will be competitive in the global market