Semantics and KPIs to improve partner selection for small series production

This paper describes an on-going research and development activity to implement a semantic-based Partner Search service for supporting companies in a supply chain network configuration as one of the key elements of a comprehensive architecture with the aim of supporting collaborative design, planning and manufacturing for highly customised goods. The Partner Search service is the module in charge of managing and improving the manufacturer's knowledge about its, even potential, supply chains. This service, therefore, has to support the manufacturer in managing information, based on capabilities and performance, about past and present partners, as well as in identifying new potential suppliers. The service is useful especially to develop effective partnerships when producing small batches, where it is necessary to have a reduced and easily manageable supply base.