Blog
Insights on production scheduling, lean manufacturing, and manufacturing software from 35+ years of industry experience.
Planning and scheduling practice that applies whichever system you run.
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.
Manufacturing Quality Metrics: Build Your Dashboard
Build a manufacturing quality metrics dashboard with the right KPIs. Covers first pass yield, DPMO, COPQ, and SPC metrics with formulas and target ranges.
How to Reduce Lead Times in Your Job Shop: 7 Proven Strategies
Learn 7 proven strategies to reduce manufacturing lead times in your job shop - from finite capacity scheduling to setup reduction, WIP control, and capacity planning.
5-Day Scheduling Software Implementation: Our Proven Process
Implement production scheduling software in just 5 days. Our step-by-step process covers data prep, configuration, training, and go-live for fast results.
Scheduling Solutions for Small Job Shops (Under 50 Employees)
Discover the best scheduling solutions for small job shops with under 50 employees - affordable tools, fast implementation, and practical advice for small manufacturers.
What Is Job Shop Scheduling? Definition, Examples & Best Practices
Learn what job shop scheduling is, how it works in high-mix low-volume manufacturing, and why it matters for on-time delivery, lead times, and shop floor efficiency.
What is ABC Analysis? Definition & Manufacturing Examples
Learn what ABC analysis is in inventory management, how the Pareto principle classifies inventory, and why it matters for scheduling.
What is Acceptance Sampling? Definition & Manufacturing Examples
Learn what acceptance sampling is, how it works in manufacturing, and why it matters for production scheduling and quality control decisions.
Advanced Planning & Scheduling (APS): Glossary Definition
Advanced Planning & Scheduling (APS) in one paragraph: software that schedules every operation against real, finite capacity. Links to the complete APS guide.
What is Assemble-to-Order (ATO)? Definition & Manufacturing Examples
Assemble-to-Order definition: a manufacturing strategy where subassemblies are stocked and final assembly begins when a customer order is received. Learn more.