Integrating the JIT philosophy and manufacturing resources planning in the factory of the future

Abstract

This report analyses the possibility of integrating the Just-In-Time manufacturing philosophy and Manufacturing Resources Planning. The purpose is to show the feasibility of using JIT with MRP II and how they can work together. This concept is valuable when realizing that JIT is the most coherent manufacturing strategy in industry and MRP II is the best planning technique to date. The problem is bridging the two concepts. Material requirement planning is the connection, but it is not able to keep up with the frequency of JIT. Considerable planning must be given especially to making a smooth transition between the planning phase (MRP II) and the execution phase (JIT).