The interaction of human, information and technology components in real time physical asset management
Date
2007-03
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch
Abstract
The last untapped margin of improvement in the manufacturing process is believed to be the
improvement of physical asset maintenance. The latest opportunity is to move this process to a
real time system.
Although in recent years it has become somewhat of a cliché, the successful management of the
human factor is one of the most critical components, and also one of the most difficult to
manage, in all improvement projects. By combining the groundbreaking opportunity in Asset
Performance Management with an enthusiasm for people and process improvement, the focus of
this research is found. The motivation stems from a realization that Asset Performance
Management will undergo radical changes and that it would not be sufficient to apply the
traditional methods of managing change to the younger generations, that are currently entering
the workforce and that would have to run this improved system.
The industry trend was studied in order to better facilitate a solution that would suit this natural
evolution. Specifically, trends were studied on Human, Information and Technology levels since
background studies have shown that these three components are key to the Physical Asset
Performance Management scenario. Through an in-depth literature study, the answers to the
predetermined research questions were determined.
To guide companies through the transition towards the real time enterprise as well as improve
overall machine performance (research origin), the HIT Interaction model for real time Physical
Asset Performance Management is proposed. A structure is also facilitated by which companies
can be evaluated in terms of the stages of readiness for real time operation. This enables them
to establish where they currently are and what strategic steps to take in order to reach the next
level.
Description
Thesis (MScEng (Industrial Engineering))--University of Stellenbosch, 2007.
Keywords
Dissertations -- Industrial engineering, Theses -- Industrial engineering, Production management, Capital -- Management, Asset performance managment