1) System Integrator
A System Integrator is a company that possesses the resources required to provide a full set of engineering services needed to take a project from the problem definition stage all the way through to implementation and system acceptance by the end user. In some cases, but not always, a company that defines itself as a system integrator may also manufacture equipment and controls. A system integrator will also assume financial responsibility for system performance. See also Consultant and/or Integrated Systems & Controls.
2) Consultant
Consultants whose practice includes the areas of material handling and logistics possess varying degrees of technical expertise, ranging from business process advice and design to detailed engineering design services that lead to equipment and systems being bid and procured. Although a consulting firm may also perform system integration services, it is more the exception than the rule. See also Systems Integrator .
3) Integrated Systems & Controls
Integrated Systems and Controls (ISC) refers to a product section of the Material Handling Industry of America. An integrated system is a desired state that generally refers to at least one of the three possible characteristics of an installed material handling system. First, although mechanical automation of the material flow properties of a system may be evident, it is the automation of the information flow associated with what is taking place, concurrently with the physical flow, that is the most defining characteristic. Secondly, an integrated system can be characterized by an unbroken, highly coordinated material flow link between successive stages in a manufacturing or warehousing operation where continuous flow is emphasized, and delays, waiting and intermediate storage minimized. Thirdly, an integrated system characteristically interfaces two or more material handling devices in order to form the bridge between work stations or other discrete points of origin and destination within the material flow cycle, with the goal being a high degree of mechanical coordination and the precise timing of movements. See also System Integrator , Consultant , and Controls .
4) APMHC
The Association of Professional Material Handling Consultants (APMHC) was organized in 1959 by several leaders who saw the need for more reliable, capable and professional services in the material handling consulting field.
APMHC is a professional society composed of individual consultants in the material handling field. It promotes and coordinates the exchange of ideas and information among members; encourages the improvement of analysis, synthesis, installation and training, and assists other groups in promotion material handling generally and the consulting profession specifically.
5) Association of Professional Material Handling Consultants
The Association of Professional Material Handling Consultants (APMHC) was organized in 1959 by several leaders who saw the need for more reliable, capable and professional services in the material handling consulting field.
APMHC is a professional society composed of individual consultants in the material handling field. It promotes and coordinates the exchange of ideas and information among members; encourages the improvement of analysis, synthesis, installation and training, and assists other groups in promotion material handling generally and the consulting profession specifically.