The realization of reference enterprise modelling architectures

In order to sustain the business in a volatile environment, manufacturing enterprises today have a common requirement for an information system which provides total and reliable support to the business. In order to develop specifications which are most supportive, enterprise modelling architectures which appropriately reflect the operation and behaviour of the enterprise are needed. Modelling architectures are underpinned by an integrated model, which provides the language constructs and accompanying enterprise modelling methodology. It is proposed that a structured approach can be employed to develop integrated enterprise models which are able to accommodate new perceptions of the enterprise operation and organization, brought about by the development of new manufacturing concepts. The process is illustrated with an example to demonstrate how the structured approach can be readily applied for the development of an integrated enterprise model for information specification in a small company. Where possible, features from existing architectures have been adapted to enhance the development process.