The Production Logistic Theory as an Integral Part of a Theory of Production Technology

Abstract

Today’s manufacturing companies operate in a turbulent environment. Globalisation, increasing market dynamism and ever shortening product life cycles are just some of the aspects that characterise the steady rise in competitive pressure (Roland Berger Strategy Consultants GmbH 2012; Abele and Reinhart 2011; Sirkin et al. 2004). Moreover, factors such as sustainability and the conservation of natural resources are playing an increasingly important role (BMU 2012; Deutsche Post AG 2010). In order to maintain sustainable production in a turbulent environment, it is necessary to be able to anticipate impending changes and to determine and assess available alternative courses of action. The determination of potential action strategies requires knowledge of how production facilities behave at all levels, including those of production networks, machines and processes.