Facilities Planning

Facilities Planning

Publisher
John Wiley & Sons Inc
Published
1984
Pages
—
ISBN-13
9780471032991
Format
print
Language
English
Book Summary
Facilities Planning by Tompkins and White is a comprehensive textbook on designing and analyzing facility layouts, material handling, and location decisions. It provides engineering and management students with quantitative methods and practical frameworks for optimizing space, flow, and operations in manufacturing and service environments. The book balances theory with case studies and software tools.
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About Facilities Planning

Facilities Planning is a widely adopted textbook that covers the strategic, tactical, and operational aspects of designing and improving facility layouts. It integrates quantitative techniques—such as queuing theory, linear programming, and simulation—with practical methodologies for space requirements, material handling systems, and facility location. The text emphasizes a systematic approach: defining requirements, generating alternatives, evaluating designs, and implementing solutions. Real-world examples and case studies illustrate applications in manufacturing plants, warehouses, hospitals, and offices. The book also addresses modern trends like lean principles and sustainability. With end-of-chapter problems and software support, it equips readers to make data-driven decisions that enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve workflow efficiency.

Who should read Facilities Planning?

This book is essential for undergraduate and graduate students in industrial engineering, operations management, and supply chain programs. It also serves practicing engineers, facility managers, and consultants involved in layout design, warehouse operations, or plant expansion. Professionals seeking to apply quantitative methods to space planning and material handling will find it invaluable. Instructors can use it as a core text for courses on facilities planning or manufacturing systems. Readers should have a basic foundation in statistics and operations research.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • ✓ Comprehensive coverage of both quantitative methods and practical applications.
  • ✓ Clear frameworks for systematic facility design and evaluation.
  • ✓ Numerous case studies and examples from diverse industries.
  • ✓ End-of-chapter problems reinforce learning and skill development.
  • ✓ Integration of modern topics like lean and sustainability.
Cons
  • ✗ Some readers may find the quantitative sections mathematically dense.
  • ✗ Limited coverage of emerging technologies like IoT and AI in facilities.
  • ✗ Case studies may feel dated in rapidly changing industries.
  • ✗ Assumes prior knowledge of operations research concepts.
  • ✗ Software examples may require access to specific tools.
Frequently asked questions
Is this book suitable for self-study?
Yes, but readers should have a background in engineering or operations management. The end-of-chapter problems and examples support independent learning, though access to software may be helpful.
Does the book cover service facilities like hospitals?
Yes, it includes examples and case studies from service industries, including healthcare, retail, and offices, alongside manufacturing applications.
What edition is this ISBN?
ISBN 9780471032991 corresponds to the 3rd edition of Facilities Planning, published by Wiley.
Are there software tools or templates included?
The book references various software tools for layout and analysis, but does not include a CD or access code. Instructors may supplement with current software.
Is this book useful for warehouse design?
Yes, it covers material handling, storage systems, and layout principles that are directly applicable to warehouse and distribution center design.

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