This is the second of two papers surveying research in coordination approaches and systems. This paper is concerned with operational
coordination, which is aimed at coordinating activities such that the design process can be performed in a near optimal manner
with respect to time, and the allocation and utilisation of resources. Aspects of coordination categorised as operational
include resource management, scheduling and planning. The first of these two papers presents a review of coordination from
a strategic perspective, which is concerned with the decision management aspects of coordination. Greater emphasis is now
being placed on the significance of organising the design process as this affects time to market, product quality, cost, and
consequently product success. The aim of this paper is to present a fundamental review of operational coordination approaches
and systems. The 1990s has seen much progress being made towards a greater understanding and appreciation of coordination
in various disciplines through the development of a wide range of approaches and systems. However, there remains a requirement
to formally identify the key issues involved in coordination such that a widely accepted representation can be agreed upon.
Consequently, research should continue to be supported in the exploration for a unified approach to coordination which will
permit a broader and greater understanding of those aspects involved.
Key words: Coordination – Monitoring – Planning – Resource management – Scheduling