Abstract One approach to the integration of computer-based manufacturing systems is to establish mechanisms that gain access to application data bases, and then to link these interfaces in a manner general enough to admit the introduction of new applications and data structures in the future. We describe here a system developed to integrate a company's separate, freestanding applications, and in particular we discuss our experiences of implementing a prototype scheme used to connect a manufacturing cell with production management, process planning and CAD- CAM applications. Working within the bounds set by the need to maintain intact existing applications and very largely existing practices, the principal work of the scheme is viewed as being the transportation and transformation of data between heterogeneous systems The value of the approach is currently being assessed in terms of its economic value to the operation of the company.