Sequencing shop floor operations: a practical approach

Abstract

Purpose

The work sequence indicated by a production schedule generated by existing scheduling techniques may not necessarily meet the need for efficient sequencing of day‐to‐day shop floor operations in a dynamic job shop environment. The purpose of this paper is to present a new practical approach to efficiently sequencing day‐to‐day shop floor operations of a job shop.

Design/methodology/approach

A color coding and priority system is introduced to identify production jobs that are to be processed at work centers which have a work sequence preference for performing various jobs. Based on a realistic production schedule, a three‐phase sequencing method is developed to create a truly feasible shop schedule, with the most efficient work sequence possible.

Findings

Specific features of the approach are presented and illustrated with a numerical example. It enables production jobs to be run in the best possible way at individual work centers. Various options of implementing the approach in practical applications are discussed.

Research limitations/implications

The approach serves as an enhanced supplement to a job shop operations scheduling system for efficient sequencing of shop floor operations. It is to be implemented at the shop floor level.

Practical implications

The approach can be implemented as a real‐time computer integrated shop dispatching system to ensure an efficient work sequence for shop floor operations of job shops in actual industrial settings.

Originality/value

The paper addresses the need for effectively coordinating production jobs of varying routings on the shop floor, which cannot be met by existing scheduling techniques or shop dispatching practice. It provides manufacturing practitioners with a structured approach for managing shop floor operations.

Citation

Yeh, C. (2005), "Sequencing shop floor operations: a practical approach", Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, Vol. 16 No. 5, pp. 531-541. https://doi.org/10.1108/17410380510600509