Just-in-Time Manufacturing

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer examines the benefits of just-in-time (JIT) inventory management in industries where JIT is possible, and is appropriately and optimally used. The writer explains that JIT is a combined management philosophy/production system pioneered by the Toyota Motor Company of Japan in the 1950s. In addition, the writer explains key concepts and benefits of JIT inventory management. The writer concludes that other manufacturing companies with overstocked inventory and sluggish production processes could arguably learn much from studying successful JIT manufacturing operations.

Outline:
Introduction
Key Elements of JIT
Pitfalls of JIT
Getting Ready to Implement JIT
Toyota: JIT's First Success Story
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Successful implementation involves planning and carrying out Integrated Process Control (IPC). The key component of IPC is continual improvement ("Kaizen" ). "Kaizen" is also directed toward producing quality at low cost. Companies that plan JIT to meet their needs often benefit in profitability, productivity, and customer satisfaction. Production on demand reduces inventory, eliminates waste, ships faster, and pleases customers."
"Ayers notes that even now most companies exist in a state of what he calls the "Functional Paradigm": consisting of individual "functional" departments, each with its purpose and agenda. Such departments are led by strong, single-minded managers, with little concern for needs of other departments, or, for that matter, their own departments' relationship(s) to the supply chain. In companies without JIT non-value-added tasks: storage, care, inventory repair, etc., can delay shipment and reduce profit."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Ayers, J. B. (2000). Handbook of Supply Chain Management. Boca Ratan, FL: St. Lucie Press.
• Ayers, J. B. (Ed.). (2002). Making Supply Chain Management Work: Design, Implementation, Partnerships, Technology, and Profits. New York: Auerbach Publications.
• Basic Elements of JIT. (2004). Retrieved March 22, 2004 from http//www Ctu.vn/coursewares/kinhte/qtsp_hd/English/pom12.htm.
• Bourke, R. (2004). "Product Data Management and Enterprise Resource Planning:Conference Reports." PDM information company. Retrieved March 22, 2006 from: http//www.pdmic.com/articles.arpdmerp.html.
• Breen, B. (Nov 2004). "Living in Dell Time." Fast company. iss.88. 86-94.

More papers on Just-in-Time Manufacturing:

• Analytical Essay # 8783 : "Just-In-Time Manufacturing"
• Term Paper # 105563 : "Just-In-Time Inventory Systems"
• Research Paper # 91255 : "Just-in-Time Inventory and Quality Control"

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