ABSTRACT
Line integration is a key function in the process of line design. This function coordinates all the other functions of the design team, serving as the interface between the design team and other supporting groups, and often directing the actions of the entire design team. Since the ultimate objective of line design is minimum cost, cost analysis is an essential part of the design job. Two cost methods are frequently used. One is the total cost method and the other the discounted cash flow method. The former method computes the line cost by simply adding all expenditures together, while the latter further considers the time factor and possible tax impacts. Since a line is composed of many components, line cost also includes many cost items. Material-handling cost varies from application to application. Space installation cost is usually expressed as a linear function of the area.
