This chapter concerns the execution of detailed material plans. It describes the planning and release of individual orders to both factory and outside vendors. Production activity control (PAC) also concerns, when necessary, detailed scheduling and controlof individual jobs at work centers on the shop floor, as well as vendor scheduling. An effective production activity control system can ensure meeting the company’s customer service goals.
A PAC system can reduce work-in-process inventories and lead timesas well as improve vendor performance. A key element of an effective PAC system is feedback on shop and suppliers’ performance against plans. This loop-closing aspect provides signals for revising plans if necessary.This chapter is organized around threetopics:
•A framework for production activity control:
How does PAC relate to other aspects of material planning and control, and how do just-in-time production of individual firm decisions affect PAC system design?
•Production activity control techniques:What basic concepts and models are used for shop-floorand vendor scheduling and control?
•Production activity control examples:How have PAC systems been designed and implemented in several different kinds of c
