Scheduling workforce and workflow in a high volume factory

Article Abstract:

An attempt was made to develop a model for scheduling both workers and their work in a complex high volume factory. A high volume factory is defined as a linked network of workstations where assigned workers process work-in-progress flowing at high rates along the workstations. The object-oriented linear programming model of a high volume factory was applied by using exogenous input work profiles in large US mail processing facilities. The results are model-relevant for some firms that operate such factories by offering a generic modeling structure for examining different operations. They are also useful for managers and workers because they provide savings from cross-trained, flexible workers and work-in-progress inventories. Operations researchers and management scientists will also find the results useful.

Scheduling (Management), Process control, Factory management

---

Dynamic routing and operational controls in workflow management systems

Article Abstract:

A general framework for introducing dynamic routing and operational control mechanisms in Workflow Management Systems (WMSs) is presented. Unlike earlier models, which tend be based on static routing schemes, this newer framework offers an efficient and orderly approach to workflow management while ensuring optimal flexibility. It does this through three techniques, namely, workflow control tables, sequence constraints and event-based workflow management rules. Compared to commercial WMSs, this method ensures flexible process modeling and control, allows rework on an ad hoc basis, addresses exceptions to routing and operational controls, and takes advantage of parallelism to raise system throughput and response time. The model is applied to consumer loan management and then compared to static-routed methods.

Design and construction, Management information systems

---

Optimal allocation of work in assembly systems

Article Abstract:

The maximization of throughput in stochastic work assembly systems is examined. Throughput refers to the number of products completed per time period. Optimal work allocation across stations is modelled using a Markov process in the case of exponential processing time distributions, while simulation-based curve fitting is used in the case of uniform distributions. The results indicate that in a balanced system, the assembly station represents a bottleneck. Thus, the optimal solution lies in assigning less work to assembly and more to component or feeder stations, resulting in an unbalanced system. Extension to the case of a longer assembly line and more than two parallel feeder stations suggests that parallelism affords greater improvement.

Methods, Production engineering

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: A perspective on research in governmental accounting. SEC disclosure regulation and management perquisites
• Abstracts: Including the value of time in design-for-manufacturing decisions making. A model of new product development: an empirical test
• Abstracts: The Certified in Financial Management (CFM) program. Standards of ethical conduct for practitioners of management accounting and financial management
• Abstracts: Introducing products into export markets: success factors. Organizational learning, commitment, and joint value creation in interfirm relationships
• Abstracts: Personal networks of women and minorities in management: a conceptual framework. Building collegial information networks: A theory of advice network generation

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.