Book excerpt: This project-oriented facilities design and material handling reference explores the techniques and procedures for developing an efficient facility layout, and introduces some of the state-of-the-art tools involved, such as computer simulation. A "how-to," systematic, and methodical approach leads readers through the collection, analysis and development of information to produce a quality functional plant layout. Lean manufacturing; work cells and group technology; time standards; the concepts behind calculating machine and personnel requirements, balancing assembly lines, and leveling workloads in manufacturing cells; automatic identification and data collection; and ergonomics. For facilities planners, plant layout, and industrial engineer professionals who are involved in facilities planning and design.