Book excerpt: This book presents a wide-ranging view of the benefits available through the intelligent use of manufacturing information systems. Readers benefit from the authors' collective experience in bringing new information technologies into manufacturing companies. Using examples of actual IT implementations, they provide a comprehensive picture of how to cut costs and add valuable new capabilities to IT projects. The book takes a comprehensive look at five major areas where IT systems can play a pivotal role in improving any company's manufacturing processes. Going beyond theory, the authors show readers how they can ensure that their IT investments bring a real payback to their companies.