Just-in-time

One of the best ideas to come out of operations management is the concept of just-in-time (JIT) production.  As most know it is the idea that whatever your operation is waiting for (raw materials, finished product, etc.), it will be there right when you need it.  This avoids keeping a large inventory of items on hand which must be kept track of.  With careful planning a just-in-time system will give you exactly what you want exactly when you need it.

(Courtesy www.planproduction.tripod.com)

Of course it doesn't always work that way.  It has been my experience that some products will invariably be delayed to the downstream user because of raw material shortages, errors in production, having other work "out prioritize" your work.  Instead of a just-in-time system, you know have a "just-in-turmoil" system.  With one delay in the pipeline the rest of the operation must now work overtime to catch up.  Literally work overtime as in a 24/7 type of rescue.

The best approach is to have the parts or materials arrive a little before "just-in-time" so there is a a little safety buffer.  It may mean stacking parts in side areas a few days before you need them. This may be uncomfortable, but will keep your operation flowing smoothly.

(Courtesy: www.elblogsalmon.com)