What are the main topics to cover in a scheduling training deck?
A scheduling training deck should cover scheduling implications, forward and backward scheduling, scheduling methods, types of planning files, loading jobs in work centres, Gantt charts, assignment methods, and sequencing. These correspond to the eight core sections found in many curricula, totaling 8 topics.
How do forward and backward scheduling differ and when is each used?
Forward scheduling begins as soon as requirements are known, offering flexibility, but potentially increasing work-in-progress (WIP). Backward scheduling starts from the due date and schedules tasks in reverse to meet deadlines; it is commonly used in manufacturing and service industries. Backward scheduling starts from the due date.
What scheduling metrics or rules should I consider for job sequencing?
Common sequencing rules include First Come, First Served (FCFS), Shortest Processing Time (SPT), Earliest Due Date (EDD), Critical Ratio (CR), and Longest Processing Time (LPT). Useful metrics to track include utilization, average completion time, and average job lateness, with utilization and average job lateness being key metrics.
How can Gantt charts help with resource allocation on the shop floor?
Gantt charts provide a visual timeline of jobs and resource assignments, making it easier to spot workload peaks, overlaps, and idle times across work centres. They support tracking progress against deadlines and reallocating tasks to reduce bottlenecks, typically using Gantt chart templates for visualization.
What should I look for when choosing a scheduling training deck or toolkit?
Look for explicit coverage of forward/backward scheduling, Gantt chart templates, planning file templates (item, routing, work centre), assignment method models, capacity planning worksheets, and customization guidance to match your operations. Flevy's Supply Chain Fundamentals Module 4 - Scheduling illustrates these elements and is delivered as a 43-slide deck.
How much time should I plan for a scheduling workshop to cover key topics?
A practical workshop agenda in the module suggests a 60-minute introduction on scheduling implications, a 90-minute hands-on session for Gantt charts and assignment methods, and a 60-minute job sequencing/prioritization session, totaling 210 minutes (3.5 hours).
I need to minimize WIP on my shop floor—what scheduling techniques should I consider?
To reduce WIP, consider tighter job sequencing rules, short-term scheduling frameworks, and reviewing forward versus backward scheduling trade-offs to limit overlapping work. Use sequencing criteria and prioritization exercises to reduce in-process inventory, applying rules such as Shortest Processing Time to lower WIP.
Can I adapt scheduling templates to my company’s terminology and capacity data?
Yes. Guidance in the material recommends tailoring Gantt chart templates, adjusting job sequencing criteria to operational priorities, incorporating company-specific terminology into planning files, and updating capacity planning worksheets using planning file templates like the Item Master File, Routing File, and Work Centre Master File.