Computer-Integrated Planning -CIP- - Modular integration of heterogeneous planning tools

The need for substantial increase in both speed and quality of factory planning projects, can only be met by a tool-box type of system. This open system, which is based on one model of the real world, supports the planner in all stages of the planning process. The main components of the system, data and operator base, infrastructure, user interface and planning tools, are identified and interfaces between the components are described. The example of a typical spatial feasibility study concludes the paper.