International Journal of Human Capital in Urban Management
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Flexible manufacturing systems and their role in human resource sustainability: Analytical study


Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 08 January 2026
International Journal of Human Capital in Urban Management

Document Type : ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE

Authors

R. A. Hussein 1
A. K. Hussein 2
N. Y. Mohammed 1
A. S. Yousif 1

1 Technical College of Management/Mosul, Northern Technical University, Mosul, 41001, Iraq

2 College of Management and Economics, University of Mosul, Mosul, 41001, Iraq

Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study investigated how Flexible Manufacturing Systems—including workstations, automated handling/storage, inspection equipment, ancillary components, and computer control—were related to Human Resource sustainability (justice, job well-being, and employee development) at the Samarra Pharmaceutical Factory. The objective was to identify which FMS dimensions most strongly supported sustainable HR outcomes.
METHODS: A descriptive–analytical design was used. A structured questionnaire was administered to 230 employees; 207 valid responses were obtained (response rate = 90%). The measurement model and hypotheses were tested in AMOS v26 using standard validation criteria and structural equation modeling.
RESULTS: Overall FMS capability was positively associated with HR sustainability (standardized regression weight = 0.932; unstandardized estimate = 2.079; 95% CI = 0.896–0.971; p = 0.02). Bivariate correlations between individual FMS components and HR sustainability were significant: workstations r = 0.841 (α = 0.05), handling & storage r = 0.833 (α = 0.05), inspection equipment r = 0.644 (α = 0.05), computer control systems r = 0.902 (α = 0.05), and other components r = 0.928 (α = 0.05). Model fit indices met accepted thresholds (e.g., GFI = 0.927, AGFI = 0.916, RMR = 0.068, NFI = 0.913, RFI = 0.905).
CONCLUSION: Strengthening Flexible Manufacturing Systems—particularly computer control systems—was associated with higher HR sustainability by improving safety, reducing physical/psychological strain, and expanding development opportunities. Managers seeking technology investments that advance operational efficiency and workforce well-being could prioritize FMS upgrades aligned with these results.

Keywords

Automated material handling
Computer control systems
Employee development
Flexible manufacturing systems
Human resource sustainability
Structural equation modeling
Subjects

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  • Receive Date 21 August 2025
  • Revise Date 29 November 2025
  • Accept Date 03 January 2026

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