Metrisability of managing of stream-systemic processes

Purpose: This paper pursuits the possibilities of applying a mathematical description to the management of a manufacturing process, based on a stream-systemic model. Design/methodology/approach: To achieve the planned goal, in order to properly describe the manufacturing system management, six process stream functions were introduced. Non-dimensional flows of these functions in time can be empirically defined during the manufacturing process. They are interpreted as non-dimensional expenses. Maximum values for these functions in properly-managed processes equal one. Also, a global management function was introduced, being a sum of areas of circle sections delineated by functions of the streams and their respective weights. Stream weights in the manufacturing process signify the processes’ roles and importance in the system. The paper also provides a vector representation of a manufacturing process as a sum of stream vectors with their associated weights. Findings: The global function of process management and the process vector provide the possibility to optimize the process, allow for control, and are closely associated with final product quality. The structure of the suggested management functions allows for optimization and process control. It is also strictly associated with manufacturing quality. The presented metrizability method of manufacturing process management can also be applied to the analysis of non-metrisable product manufacturing. Originality/value: The article may be a recommendation for manufacturing companies. The structure of the suggested management functions allows for manufacturing companies optimization, process control and manufacturing quality.