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Planning and Scheduling
This is one aspect of an integrated solution suited to manufacturing processes of relatively short runs. The bespoke nature of the RTIS approach naturally caters best for manufacturers who are themselves in the business of mass customisation or bespoke production. Here, the allocation of work across machinery often requires a decision according to a number of competing priorities, such as the relative importance of a particular order against fewer machine set ups.
The planning module's effectiveness depends on it receiving sufficient accurate information in order to apply the desired policies. Ideally the information is provided "live" through automatic linking with other systems (RTIS Modules or 3rd party systems). Where this is not possible, the planning module can still provide a useful function in a standalone role, where the required information is collated, and entered manually into the planning system.
Download .pdf introduction to production planning module
In the example below, the jobs pending at each process and the machine loading/capacity are shown in real-time. The operator can then prioritise the work pending in an informed manner, for example according to:
- Rush job optimised set-up at this process
- Optimise downstream process utilisation
- Delivery area
- Most efficient use of raw materials stock
- Maintain finished goods stock levels
A typical screen showing the capacity of machinery - red shows overloading, yellow is close to capacity, while blue is under-utilised. - and the potential effect of allocating the current order. This example is from a joinery process. The operator can see the implications of the order on factory loading, allocating an appropriate press date.
