CIM

CIM is an acronym that can refer to several concepts depending on the field. The two most common usages are Computer Integrated Manufacturing and the Common Information Model for electric utilities.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) describes an approach to manufacturing in which product design, process planning, production, and distribution are coordinated through computer systems. CIM integrates computer-aided design and manufacturing, robotics, manufacturing execution systems, and enterprise resource planning to create a seamless information flow across design, production, and logistics. The goal is to reduce cycle times, inventory, and manual handling while increasing flexibility and quality. Adoption often requires substantial upfront investment and standards-based data exchange to ensure interoperability among diverse machines and software.

Common Information Model (CIM) is a standardized information modeling framework used by electric utilities to represent power system components, assets, and data exchanges. CIM is developed and maintained through initiatives aligned with IEC 61968 and IEC 61970, supporting interoperability among software used in network management, energy management, geographic information systems, asset management, and market operations. The model defines classes for equipment, topology, circuits, metering, outages, and tariffs, enabling consistent data sharing and integration across planning, operations, and customer information systems.

Other meanings of CIM exist in different domains, but these uses are less standardized and highly context-dependent. When encountering the acronym, the surrounding field typically clarifies the intended expansion.