Article Summary

Article Summary

In the article Advanced Planning and Scheduling Technology Charles Murgiano discusses the best software tools for ETO environment It is rather difficult for many manufacturers to compete in highly competitive business environment , and , thus , to succeed they should deliver products on time and meet changing customer 's needs . The problem is that ETO process often results in late deliveriess , and the author recommends using advanced finite capacity planning and scheduling software to coordinate schedules of engineers and manufacturing process ETO environment is presented by large companies that require

instrumentation , machinery and tools for meeting specific roles in their businesses . Scheduling coordination is claimed to play crucial role in ETO environment , as managers are required to provide customers with realistic estimates on when the products will be available

Advanced finite capacity planning and scheduling software or APS is a new approach to schedule both engineering and manufacturing processes Similar to project management software , APS replaces MRP 's BOM . It means that all users are allowed to schedule forward in time . In contrast to project management software , APS contains options necessary for dealing with complexities associated with engineering and manufacturing

The product structure is modeled by a bill of operations (BOO . Software gives users an opportunity to see how lateness in one operation may affect other ones . Use of BOO simplifies modeling of the product structure , and decreases the need for manpower and computer time However , to improve delivery , ETO companies need the scheduling power of APS software . Summing...