The impact of technology on small manufacturing firms

This study reports on the use of advanced manufacturing technology by small manufacturing firms engaged in metal fabrication and precision machining. Results indicate an increase in the use of advanced technologies, including CNC, CAD/CAM, JIT, and TQM. Few differences in demographic characteristics were found between advanced adn traditional technology firms. However, significant differences were found in the production environments of these firms. The increased adoption of advanced, computer-controlled technology in small manufacturing firms was evident.