Just-in-Time (JIT) Production System is a production method aiming to reduce production flow times; materials deliveries are scheduled such that they immediately are processed when they arrived in the manufacturing lines.
Adapting JIT System provides all-around benefits such as the reduction in labor, inventory costs, space, standard hours, increase in production rate, etc. To transform factory-scale production systems into JIT Production System, modification in several sectors is necessary.
JIT System encourages a flow manufacturing method where each part moves individually, rather than in a batch, through the manufacturing process without any ‘bottleneck’. This method also called ‘pull’ production because each part of production depends on customer demands.
Hence, production leveling is also crucial in implementing JIT System. Production leveling means diversifying the production system, where multiple products are being manufactured simultaneously (depending on current demands) rather than producing a batch of certain products at a certain time.
Another popular concept in JIT System is the Kanban system. Kanbans are cards or signs containing information about parts delivery. These signs also provide information on the current state of each part in the flow manufacturing.
The layout schemes for JIT systems are set in such a way that equipment and machines used for the entire process are groups together. Hence, it is important for workers to have the ability to every machine in the process.
This allows a single worker to move with each part from start to finish and reducing the manpower required for the production process. Moreover, JIT also needs reliable support from Maintenance and Safety department since the smallest machine breakdowns or accidents could stop the entire production flow that can lead to profit loss.
However, JIT also has its own flaws and disadvantages. To find success in JIT System, it is crucial to have reliable suppliers that could deliver raw materials in a short time or in smaller quantities because the production flow is based on current demands. If the suppliers are unable to meet the materials requirements, this can lead to production stoppage because the stock is run out and risking delaying customers’ receipt of goods.
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