Manufacturing systems in South Africa are critical for economic growth but often face reliability challenges. A mixed-method approach incorporating econometric techniques such as fixed effects models was employed to analyse panel data. The study identified a positive correlation between investment in maintenance and system uptime (r = 0.65, p < 0.01). Panel data analysis revealed significant improvements in manufacturing systems reliability with strategic investments. Strategic investments should focus on preventive maintenance to enhance system reliability. Manufacturing Systems; Panel Data Analysis; System Reliability; South Africa Engineering
Hlomahlahla et al. (Wed,) studied this question.