The Mesima project will develop, pilot and implement a new method of self-learning for different levels of SME staff in order to provide a user-specific curriculum, specific to manufacturing systems and related enterprises. The resulting web-based, distance-learning product expects to contribute to overcoming the shortage of skilled staff within the manufacturing industry. The project will result in a new training method that encourages situation-based learning and further uses interactive CD animation. From the perspective of the SME employee, on-line products, in EN and all partner languages (SV, FR & PL) will include a dissemination folder, a modular course curriculum, an autonomous course selector and the facility for certification. Having entered individual preferences, the user will receive a user-specific course curriculum in EN (DVD format). As the course is to be developed at European level, on-line completion and certification is planned, with the support of a distance-access tutor available upon request. Following an extensive testing period, to involve both workshops and pilot courses at different levels, across the partner countries, end products will be subsequently refined and finalised, with a part of the simulation curriculum expected to be applied at university level. The project web site will be central to dissemination activities. A database of relevant contacts will also be established with various forms of advertising, publicity and awareness raising planned.