Open Access Conference Proceedings

World-Class manufacturing was the term introduced for referring to the goal of achieving and/or sustaining World-Class competitiveness through manufacturing excellence, attained through best practices. The mission of World-Class manufacturing is to bring manufacturing closer to the market by eliminating waste. This mission is translated into reality through the objectives of cost reduction, quantity control, quality assurance and respect for humanity. During the last 20 years the concept of WCM has evolved by changing its basic pillars. The article deals with the changes in the perception and construction of the concept. The author proposed the 3rd generation concept of WCM system based on agility.

Keywords: WCM, world class manufacturing generations

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