Production Control
Definition
Production control is a crucial aspect of manufacturing and industrial operations. It involves a comprehensive approach to managing and optimizing the production process through various functions such as planning, routing, scheduling, dispatching, and inspection. The primary goal of production control is to ensure that production activities are carried out efficiently, meeting quality standards and deadlines while minimizing costs and resource use.
Key Functions
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Planning: Involves determining what will be produced, how it will be produced, and the resources needed. Effective planning ensures that the production process aligns with business objectives and market demand.
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Routing: Defines the pathway or order of operations through which the product will proceed from the start to the end of the production process. This helps in determining the sequence of machines and workstations.
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Scheduling: Establishes the timeframes for each phase of the production process, ensuring that resources are properly allocated and that deadlines are met. Scheduling involves setting start and finish times for tasks.
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Dispatching: Refers to the execution phase where production orders are released to the shop floor. This includes providing employees with the instructions and resources they need to perform their tasks.
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Inspection: Involves checking products at various stages of the production process to ensure they meet the required quality standards. This step helps to identify defects and implement corrective actions.
Examples
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Automobile Manufacturing: In car production, planning includes determining the models to be produced, the number of units, and the required materials. Routing defines the sequence of assembly operations, while scheduling sets the production timeline. Dispatching ensures that tasks are carried out as planned, and inspection checks for any defects at each stage.
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Electronics Manufacturing: For producing electronic devices, planning includes component sourcing and design specifications. Routing directs the flow of work through soldering, assembly, and testing stations. Scheduling arranges the production timelines, and dispatching ensures that all stations receive materials on time. Inspection involves checking for functional and safety standards before devices are packaged.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the primary goal of production control?
The primary goal of production control is to ensure that production activities are carried out efficiently, meeting quality standards and deadlines while minimizing costs and resource use.
How does production control differ from production planning?
Production planning is a part of production control that specifically focuses on setting production goals and determining how they will be achieved. Production control encompasses production planning and also addresses execution and quality assurance.
Why is routing important in production control?
Routing is essential as it determines the most efficient path for work to proceed through the production process, ensuring that each task follows a defined sequence and helps reduce production time and costs.
Can production control help in reducing waste?
Yes, effective production control can help identify inefficiencies and areas of waste in the production process, allowing for adjustments that lead to reduced waste and optimized resource use.
What is the role of inspection in production control?
Inspection is the quality control aspect of production control. It ensures that products comply with quality standards and helps identify defects early in the production process for timely corrective action.
Related Terms
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Lean Manufacturing: A methodology focused on minimizing waste within manufacturing systems while simultaneously maximizing productivity.
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Inventory Control: The process of managing inventory to ensure the right amount of stock is available to meet customer demands without oversupply.
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Quality Control: A process through which a business seeks to ensure that product quality is maintained or improved.
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Supply Chain Management: The management of the flow of goods and services, including all processes that transform raw materials into final products.
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Kaizen: A philosophy that focuses on continuous improvement of processes in manufacturing, engineering, and business management.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Production Planning and Control” by John Kenworthy
- “Manufacturing Planning and Control for Supply Chain Management” by Thomas E. Vollmann, William L. Berry, David C. Whybark, and F. Robert Jacobs
- “Fundamentals of Production Planning and Control” by Stephen N. Chapman
- “The Principles of Scientific Management” by Frederick Winslow Taylor
Fundamentals of Production Control: Operations Management Basics Quiz
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