From Complexity To Clarity In Sustainable Factory Planning: A Conceptual Approach For Data-driven Integration Of Green Factory KPIs In Manufacturing Site Selection

Abstract

The selection of manufacturing facility locations entails high costs and long-term consequences. This necessitates an objective approach to mitigate uncertainties associated with subjective decision-making. Our paper builds upon previous research on data-driven location selection and conceptually extends it to integrate sustainability potential evaluation. By combining Green Factory Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), the authors aim to facilitate and standardize long-term decision-making in sustainable factory planning. After outlining the requirements, current state of the art, and limitations of location selection, we emphasize the need for integrating region-specific Green Factory KPIs with new data sources for site selection. Therefore, we propose a methodology involving a review of scientific literature and other sources to identify data sources for site selection, establishing research criteria for determining data suitability. The results include suitable subsets for location selection and future steps such as criteria application and target data determination. This paper contributes to paving the way for implementing sustainability-driven location selection strategies in factory planning. In conclusion, we outline a roadmap for further development and suggest two areas for future research: data collection and integration, as well as developing and validating a location selection app.