There are hundreds of computerized manufacturing systems on the market today. Why can't they answer the needs of the wire and cable industry? The reason is simple. Most computer programs are based on a finite number of repetitive tasks, but the wire and cable environment deals with an almost infinite variety of product combinations. For any program to be effective, it would have to be as complex as the products. To commit the resources to create such a complex program is difficult and time consuming. However, automation can give companies a competitive edge in efficient and timely flow of information as well as processing of critical data.