Shipyard Production Processes Re-Design Methodology Based on Expert Approach and Simulation Modeling

The authors propose a synergy of expert approach methods through the Systematic layout planning (SLP) and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) as tools for the shipyard production process design towards an optimal material flow, in combination with Simulation modeling (SM). Most production process designs are based on the conventional methodology of comparison initiating with benchmarking. Such approach can be misleading. For more reliable and efficient results, the approach suggested by the authors uses a combination of the mentioned three methods within the frame of an expert approach. Firstly, the Systematic layout planning is used for generating a larger number of suboptimal shipyard production process design alternatives. Then, these alternatives are analyzed through an objective decision making tool to reach an optimal material flow alternative. Further, such optimal alternative is tested and evaluated by Simulation modeling (SM). Finally, the presented methodology is confirmed on a case study as a viable approach to an efficient and reliable shipyard production process design.