How can you assess integrated industrial systems?

1 Define the system

The first step in assessing integrated industrial systems is to define the system boundaries, objectives, functions, and requirements. This helps you to identify the scope, purpose, and stakeholders of the system, as well as the inputs, outputs, and constraints that affect its operation. You can use various tools and techniques, such as functional analysis, stakeholder analysis, system architecture, and system lifecycle, to describe the system in a clear and consistent way.

2 Measure the system

The next step is to measure the system performance, efficiency, and sustainability using appropriate indicators and metrics. These can include quantitative or qualitative measures of the system outputs, such as quality, productivity, cost, reliability, safety, and customer satisfaction. They can also include measures of the system inputs, such as resources, energy, materials, and emissions. You can use data collection and analysis methods, such as surveys, interviews, observations, experiments, and simulations, to gather and process the relevant information.

3 Analyze the system

The third step is to analyze the system behavior, structure, and dynamics using various models and methods. This helps you to understand how the system components interact and influence each other, as well as how the system responds to changes and uncertainties in the environment. You can use different types of models, such as mathematical, physical, or conceptual, to represent the system in a simplified or abstract way. You can also use different methods, such as optimization, simulation, sensitivity analysis, or scenario analysis, to explore the system behavior and outcomes under different conditions.

4 Improve the system

The final step is to improve the system performance, efficiency, and sustainability using various strategies and techniques. This involves identifying and evaluating the potential improvements or alternatives that can enhance the system value and meet the stakeholder needs and expectations. You can use various tools and techniques, such as benchmarking, best practices, design of experiments, or decision analysis, to compare and select the best options. You can also use various methods, such as feedback loops, control systems, or change management, to implement and monitor the improvements.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?