Sustainability metrics for the Factory-in-a-Box paradigm: informing early business case

Abstract

The factory-in-a-box (FIAB) is an emerging alternative to traditional manufacturing solutions. Reliability, rapid response and closeness to point of use are key system characteristics that create competitive advantage, or fulfil unmet needs, where traditional manufacturing solutions are not feasible. Since this concept is gaining commercial credibility, exploration of sustainability in early business cases has become an important consideration for supporting sustainable manufacturing innovation in line with the UK net zero ambitions. This paper investigates appropriate sustainability metrics for informing an early business case for FIAB applications and provides a review of relevant sustainability indicators, amongst others. Further, a multicriteria decision making approach is proposed for assessing an early business case for FIAB. Lastly a use case of a real-world FIAB application is demonstrated showcasing business case sustainability assessment.