Flow manufacturing's components and benefits.

Dec. 21, 2004

Flow Manufacturing's Five Components

Line-design tools balance production lines by calculating the standard pace of the line in daily production.

Operational-method sheets provide how-to instructions for line workers for each process, documenting work and inspection steps.

Kanban-replenishment modules enable a pull system of material replenishment with suppliers and feeder lines.

Demand smoothing enables managers to calculate daily production needs based on orders, helping determine resource needs for each product line.

Production execution reconciles finished products with inventory, material, and labor. Flow Manufacturing's Typical Benefits

Increased inventory turns

Reduced product defects

Better on-time deliveries

Reduced manufacturing floor space

Better supplier relationships

Lower IS costs

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