Blog
Insights on production scheduling, lean manufacturing, and manufacturing software from 35+ years of industry experience.
Job Shop vs Flow Shop Scheduling: Key Differences Explained
Understand the key differences between job shop and flow shop scheduling — routing flexibility, equipment, scheduling complexity, and which software approach fits each environment.
WIP Tracking & Management for Job Shops
Learn how to track and manage work-in-process (WIP) inventory in your job shop — reducing excess WIP, freeing cash, and improving flow with scheduling and visibility tools.
Lean Supply Chain Management: Principles & Implementation
Implement lean supply chain management to reduce waste, cut lead times, and improve supplier performance. Practical strategies for manufacturing operations.
Lean vs Agile Manufacturing: Which Approach Fits You?
Compare lean and agile manufacturing across cost, flexibility, lead time, and inventory. Learn when to use each approach and how to combine them effectively.
Make-to-Order Scheduling: A Complete Guide for Job Shops
Master make-to-order scheduling for your job shop — how it differs from make-to-stock, key challenges, and how finite capacity scheduling ensures on-time delivery for custom orders.
15 Manufacturing Cost Reduction Strategies That Actually Work
Cut manufacturing costs with 15 proven strategies across scheduling, labor, materials, quality, and overhead. Real examples with measurable savings potential.
How to Measure Manufacturing Productivity (5 Key Metrics)
Measure manufacturing productivity accurately with 5 proven metrics. Includes formulas, benchmarks, and practical strategies to improve output per labor hour.
MRP-Driven Purchasing: Automating Procurement
Learn how MRP automates purchasing decisions with planned order releases, supplier scheduling, and procurement workflows. Reduce stockouts and excess inventory.
How Production Scheduling Improves On-Time Delivery
Learn how finite capacity production scheduling drives on-time delivery rates from 80% to 95%+. Real strategies, root causes, and software solutions explained.
PDCA Cycle in Manufacturing: Plan-Do-Check-Act Explained
Apply the PDCA cycle to manufacturing problems with real examples. Learn how Plan-Do-Check-Act drives continuous improvement on the shop floor.
Priority Dispatching Rules for Job Shop Scheduling
Learn the most effective priority dispatching rules for job shop scheduling — EDD, SPT, Critical Ratio, and more — with practical guidance on when to use each rule.
10 Production Planning KPIs for Better Schedules
Track the 10 production planning KPIs that drive schedule quality. Covers schedule adherence, capacity utilization, plan stability, and more with formulas.