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.
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.
Inventory Carrying Cost: How to Calculate and Reduce It
Learn how to calculate inventory carrying costs in manufacturing. Covers the carrying cost formula, cost components, reduction strategies, and scheduling optimization.
Inventory Management for Manufacturers: Complete Guide (2026)
Practical inventory management guide for manufacturers. Covers ABC analysis, safety stock, reorder points, WIP tracking, and how scheduling software reduces carrying costs.
Lot Traceability in Manufacturing: Forward and Backward Tracking
Lot traceability links every raw material lot to the finished goods it went into. Forward and backward tracing, the data to capture, FDA, FSMA and AS9100.
Multi-Location Inventory Management for Manufacturers
Master multi-location inventory management for manufacturing. Covers centralized vs. distributed strategies, transfer logistics, unified systems, and scheduling across facilities.
Procurement Planning for Manufacturers: Strategy & Process Guide
Complete procurement planning guide for manufacturers. Covers strategic sourcing, purchase order workflows, lead time management, and scheduling-driven procurement.
Purchase Order Management for Manufacturers: Best Practices
Streamline purchase order management in manufacturing. Covers PO workflows, approval processes, tracking, supplier communication, and integration with production scheduling.
Raw Material Management for Manufacturing: Best Practices Guide
Master raw material management in manufacturing. Covers receiving, storage, tracking, waste reduction, and how scheduling software optimizes material flow.
Safety Stock Calculation for Manufacturing: Formulas & Examples
Master safety stock calculation for manufacturing with step-by-step formulas, real-world examples, Excel templates, and service level optimization strategies.