Robustness in production systems – findings from a systematic literature review. (9th March 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Stockmann, Christian; Winkler, Herwig
• Is Part Of: International journal of services and operations management. Volume 44:Number 3(2023)
• Page Start: 368
• Page End: 389
• Publication Date: 2023-03-09
• Subjects: robustness -- production management -- production systems -- stability -- operations management -- flexibility -- resilience -- resistance -- changeability -- agility; Production management -- Periodicals; 658.5005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1744-2370

Abstract

In production systems, the concept of robustness is widespread due to various applications, purposes, and interpretations. However, little is known about the conceptual characteristics of robustness in production settings and even less about its distinctions from other related terms – such as flexibility or agility. That is why this paper systematically reviews production literature to identify the contexts in which robustness is mostly applied and to analyse existing concepts. It is found that despite a vast literature body addressing robustness in varying forms, few studies cover it on a conceptual basis. Within this small sample, a rather general agreement on the meaning of robustness in production systems is found. However, details, interpretations, mentioned interlinkages to related terms differ across the identified literature. Based on the findings of the review and with the help of established literature on adjacent concepts, a comprehensive understanding of robustness in production systems is developed.