Multimethodology for diagnosis and intervention in a prosthetics and orthotics factory in Brazil

This paper develops an approach that articulates methods characterized as soft and hard Operational Research. This approach is known in the literature as Multimethodology, Hybrid Modeling, or Mixing Methods. As a Multi‐Paradigm Hybrid Study, the present research provides an interface between the qualitative and quantitative modeling of the problem addressed. In this way, it facilitates the engagement of managers with analysts in the search for solutions to problems. The applied objective is to improve the performance of production processes at a prosthetics and orthotics factory located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It applies a multimethodology to support evaluation and intervention using knowledge mapping and a discrete‐event simulation model. Lessons learned from integrated workshops enabled the devising of an alternative improvement scenario for orthotics manufacturing. Theoretical results are validated through effective intervention, providing an increase in production capacity and reduction of the manufacturing lead time. This was made possible through the understanding and engagement of stakeholders during the modeling process.