ABSTRACT

As we have stated previously, it is important to know the state of the present system before implementing changes. Events in an engineering department are not always clear as to importance, frequency or inefficiencies. Thus a properly designed questionnaire can highlight present activities and point to the areas of potential changes for improvement. A questionnaire also eliminates preconceived ideas of what activities are occurring and their importance. No one likes to answer a questionnaire. Indeed, the longer it is, the less likely it is to be completed correctly. However, one successful means to make certain such a questionnaire is completed with integrity is to include those who must answer the questionnaire in the preparation of the series of questions. It is also practical to explain why such questions are being asked prior to requesting answers. This intercommunication has worked in the past. The questionnaire illustrated here is a proven means for obtaining important information about the areas which will be most influenced by CAD/CAM. The sections of a questionnaire which will cover a large portion of those areas involved in CAD/CAM are:

Drawings

Engineering changes

Manpower

Classification

Manufacturing

NC machine tools

Service manuals

Design analysis

Before proceeding further, let us discuss one of the main ingredients of the survey, the types of drawings being prepared, and the interrelationship to drafting practices and design analysis. Following is a list of the types of drawings which a manufacturing company may be preparing.

259Piping

Wiring

Harness

Routing

Connectors

Structural

Electronic

Products

General layouts

Footings for plants

Turnkey plants

Architectural "takeoffs"

Purchased parts

Drawings by "complexity"

Castings

Forgings

Plate

Sheet metal

Machined assemblies

Weldments