Blog
Insights on production scheduling, lean manufacturing, and manufacturing software from 35+ years of industry experience.
Everything we have published.
Traceability & Lot Tracking for Regulatory Compliance
Guide to implementing lot tracking and traceability that satisfies FDA, AS9100, ISO 13485, and ITAR regulatory requirements in manufacturing scheduling systems.

Change Management for Scheduling Software Adoption
Guide to managing organizational change when implementing manufacturing scheduling software. Covers resistance, stakeholder buy-in, communication, and adoption strategies.

On-Premise vs Cloud Manufacturing Software: ITAR, Data, Cost
On-premise vs cloud manufacturing software: data control, ITAR and CMMC, internet dependency, vendor risk and cost, and when each model fits your plant.

25 Questions to Ask Scheduling Software Vendors Before You Buy
Essential questions to ask manufacturing scheduling software vendors. Covers functionality, implementation, pricing, support, compliance, and red flags to watch for.

Scheduling Software Implementation Checklist for Manufacturers
Step-by-step implementation checklist for manufacturing scheduling software. Covers planning, data preparation, configuration, testing, go-live, and post-implementation optimization.

Scheduling Software: SMB vs. Enterprise - Which Do You Need?
Compare SMB and enterprise scheduling software for manufacturing. Covers feature differences, cost gaps, implementation complexity, and how to choose the right tier.

Scheduling Software Training: Best Practices for Manufacturers
Maximize scheduling software ROI with effective training. Covers training plans, role-based curricula, hands-on exercises, and ongoing skill development strategies.

Scheduling Software TCO and ROI Calculator (Worksheet)
A fill-in TCO and ROI calculator for scheduling software: the formula, a 5-year comparison template, a hidden cost checklist and a payback calculation.

When to Replace Your Scheduling System: 10 Warning Signs
Know when it is time to replace your manufacturing scheduling system. Covers warning signs, cost of delay, evaluation triggers, and transition planning.

ABC Analysis for Manufacturing Inventory: Step-by-Step Guide
Learn how to implement ABC analysis for manufacturing inventory classification. Includes formulas, examples, spreadsheet walkthrough, and integration with scheduling software.

Demand Forecasting for Manufacturing: Methods, Models & Best Practices
Master demand forecasting for manufacturing with practical methods, formula examples, accuracy metrics, and integration with production scheduling and inventory planning.

FIFO vs. LIFO in Manufacturing: Which Method Is Right for You?
Compare FIFO and LIFO inventory methods for manufacturing. Covers cost accounting impact, regulatory requirements, practical implementation, and when to use each method.
