Information technology has become an important discipline for the manufacturing industry. However, the complexity of modern production has made manufacturing dependent on a rapidly developing computer-based support technology. The growth of a multitude of data-solutions and the use of incompatible products on different factory locations have led to so-called "islands of automation". Such islands may be of considerable individual value, but pose integration problems if one wishes to integrate factory functions. The complexity of the modern factory sets stringent requirements to the systems integrator. This book promotes a standardization in factory automation software that conforms to a common set of stringent industry requirements. Its concept is based on the extension of operating systems, networks and database facilities to address the unique requirements associated with the automation of manufacturing processes. It also presents challenges for the future of manufacturing, applications of manufacturing automation in practice, deals with the possibilities and pitfalls and gives recommendations on how to implement CIM.