In this research paper, we present a study in which we analyzed and compared three competency models of manufacturing to assess how well the models visually communicate advanced manufacturing (AM) competencies. Advanced manufacturing covers new industrial processes that improve upon traditional methods in quality, speed, and cost. In addition, the dynamic nature of technology and innovation has made it difficult to find a unified illustration of key advanced manufacturing skills. However, three visual models of manufacturing illustrate various stakeholders’ perceptions of the field and depict the competencies individuals need to join the AM workforce. The three models we analyzed are: U.S. Department of Labor’s Advanced Manufacturing Competency Model, the Society of Manufacturing Engineers’ Four Pillars of Manufacturing Knowledge, and the National Association of Manufacturers-endorsed Manufacturing Skills Certification System. While the content in these models has been validated by governmental, industry, and educational stakeholders, less explored is whether these models, as visual media, are readily understandable by their intended audiences. In this paper, we will provide an in-depth analysis of these models by using the six fundamental principles of visual design by Edward Tufte (2006): comparisons, causality, multivariate analysis, integration evidence, documentation, and content. Taken together, these principles allowed us to explore the fundamental principles of design in each model and distill promising directions for further investigation into more unified depiction of the advanced manufacturing industry sector’s competencies.
Sang Hoo Oh is a Ph.D. student at the Florida State University School of Information. Sang Hoo is also a research assistant at the Florida State University Information Institute, where he works with Dr. Marcia Mardis and Dr. Charles McClure. Prior coming to the Florida State University, he received B.S. in Public Policy from Indiana University and M.S. in Information Systems form Yonsei University, South Korea.
His research interest includes advanced manufacturing, information policy, and big data.
Marcia A. Mardis is a Professor and Associate Dean at Florida State University's College of Communication & Information and Associate Director of the Information Institute. Author of numerous publication and recipient of over two decades of federally funded research grants, Dr. Mardis' work focuses on professional identity creation, educational text and data mining, and technician education improvement.
Faye R. Jones is a Senior Research Associate at Florida State University’s College of Communication & Information. Her research interests include STEM student outcomes and the exploration of student pathways through institutional research.
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