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Computer‐integrated manufacturing (CIM) has been paid serious attention in most of the industrialized countries. Shenyang Blower Works (SBW), the largest enterprise developing, designing and fabricating turbine compressors, blowers and large fans in China, made its production plan according to orders due to its single or small batch production mode. For this SBW decided to adopt the CIM philosophy and build CIM systems (CIMS) to increase the enterprise’s market competitiveness. SBW has begun to develop CIMS going through the steps of feasibility study, primary design, detailed design and a partial implementation‐breakthrough project since 1990. A relatively perfect computer support environment for the computer‐integrated manufacturing system in Shenyang Blower Works (SB‐CIMS), especially for the primary integrated application software systems, has been completed. This accounted for various economic benefits.

Delves into history to find out if sociological knowledge can be applied successfully to policy making. Explains that society is based on the use of multiple knowledge structures and belief systems. Cites examples of centres which were set up in the USA to improve understanding and knowledge in a specific area, which could then contribute towards policy making and, ultimately, improved practice. Discusses the application of knowledge at various points in history, indicating that ruling elites are not motivated by knowledge (intellect) but by sentiment, and that this is still the case today. Refers to various literary works on sociological practice. Advocates that modern social research should be driven by policy issues and that sociologists should seize the opportunity, presented by decentralization, to become policy makers in their own communities.