To kick off the new MODKMU project, which aims to develop a selection system for process organization principles in production, we held a workshop on matrix production in the port area.
On 21 May 2025, the focus was on the question: Which organizational model is best suited to my company’s production?
The MODKMU project is being carried out by RIF e. V. and aims to develop a universally applicable software tool that will primarily provide decision support for SMEs and is based on realistic production data generated by simulation.
The workshop on matrix production was the first to be held as part of the project and created a common picture among the participants as a basis.
Theoretical units and practical workshop elements alternated.
Lucas Polley, research associate in the Production System Dynamics research area at the Institute for Production Systems (IPS), Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the Technical University of Dortmund, led the workshop and introduced the MODKMU project.
The first theoretical unit then focused on individual organizational principles that are possible in manufacturing.
In the following practical part, the participants tested how the respective organizational principle can be implemented in manufacturing. The group built paper airplanes in the individual process steps of measuring, cutting, folding, etc. This brought to light the impressive differences that can be observed in the organizational forms.
Closely linked to this practical experience, the considerations focused on what a variant-rich production with flexible workstations, transport systems and production control could look like in a modular matrix arrangement.
Products, processes and markets change and a flexibly designed production can react to this more quickly. The qualifications of employees also play a decisive role in matrix production.
It is therefore necessary to consider several levels in order to find the organizational principle that suits the individual.
In the next step, the MODKMU project will collect requirements from companies in order to continue working on the basis for deciding on the appropriate organizational principle for their own production. Participation is welcome.
You can also find more information about the project in our NIRO app.
