Implementation of Advanced Technologies: A Meta-synthesis of the Manufacturing Industry

Abstract

Advanced Manufacturing Technology (AMT) encircles the deployment of innovative technologically-based practices to improve processes and products across various manufacturing industries. Advanced manufacturing technology covers process technologies that are used to produce cutting-edge technologies and process technologies associated with computer-integrated manufacturing, robotics and automation technology. Organisations that adopt AMT are characterised by the pace at which the deployment of innovative technologically-based practices is selected and implemented in order to improve the organisations' activities and end-products. Hence, some organisations are still struggling to implement AMT practices for improvement. Therefore, the following question needs to be researched: How well is the workforce equipped to embrace the implementation of AMT, and what are the critical factors and benefits of AMT? To answer this question, a conceptual framework was developed to mainly consider manufacturing organisations concerned with deploying the AMT in some of their activities, hoping to significantly improve processes and products, ultimately enhancing customer satisfaction.