Design of the Automated Factory: More than Robots

This article emphasizes the dynamic and complex nature of a robotic factory. Every step from conception to eventual destruction is for, by, and because of people. Twelve principles of design are discussed, with emphasis on the uniqueness of each design and the processes and procedures involved in continual redesign. The technical system is related to the purpose, product, and properties of the social system; there is no optimal technology in itself. The article goes on to examine the requirements of the social system in future automated factories. Experiences in current automated factories, the organizational functions required to support the technical system, and the turbulent environment in which organizations are increasingly forced to operate are reviewed. The kinds of people needed will be required to exercise responsibility and discretion to replace supervision and prescription. The article discusses the usual myths about change, which the design process seeks to overcome, and ends with a note on the appropriate education for future designers, observing that our schools are probably not producing many appropriately trained people.