Abstract: A method for generically describing measured results which includes defining a class of entities to be measured, and a set of criteria which distinguish entities within the class of entities to be measured. A computer display format is dynamically configured based on the set of criteria. The set of criteria is displayed on the computer display according to the computer display format. The values related to an individual entity are interactively specified. The set of measurements related to class of entities to be measured is displayed on the computer display screen and are associated with the set of criteria.

Abstract: A memory structure and related method for collecting and maintaining data descriptive of a multiplicity of interrelated process flows is disclosed. A complex memory structure includes job entities, operation entities, and process entities. Operation entities are subordinate to job entities, and process entities are subordinate to operation entities. These entities are represented by tables which are linked together to indicate their position in the hierarchy and their sequencing within a process flow. The process entities describe specific activities accomplished by an organization in achieving organizational goals. Typically, resources are either consumed or released, or both, during a process. Bill-of-resource tables are subordinate to process entities and populated with data which identify resources consumed by corresponding processes in the process flow.

Abstract: A method for translating complex process flow networks into plans or schedules for the manufacturing of products or the performance of other organizational activities is disclosed. The method maintains a time-valued list of existing commitments to resources. Allocations of these resources are made to lots during a simulation procedure which calculates a resulting plan's timing data. The method simulates higher priority lots before it simulates lower priority lots. A simulation evaluates the process flow description to obtain the relative order of consuming and releasing resources, resource attributes and related capabilities, initial minimum timing requests, and process control rules. The simulation uses the list to determine when resources may be used without impacting prior commitments of the resources. In addition, the simulation forces the allocations to conform to the process control rules.