At the foundation of today's leading-edge manufacturing companies is a vision for virtual, distributed, enterprise in an agile environment where organizations can swiftly and cost-effectively bring products from concept to production, and respond dynamically to changes in customer and market requirements. This book provides, in simplified terms, key definitions, a framework, and a methodology for understanding and mapping current enterprise configurations as well as for designing the revised architecture needed for the totally integrated enterprise. It establishes a framework and methodology for realizing these objectives. It also aids the manufacturer in selecting the MRPII, MES, APS, SCM, or ERP software most appropriate to their firm's needs and for achieving total enterprise integration.