Priority planning of a dynamic complex product mix: Elements for a computerized interface between delivery times and plant utilization

The priority planning process is both the management of ensuring reliability in confirming delivery times and maximizing plant capacity utilization.A framework is presented for the decision process of order planning in a business environment with a dynamic product mix consisting of both standard and non-standard products and with a limited machine capacity.The concept of a computerized interface between the priority planning process and the confirmed order file is presented.A simulation study is done to determine the relationship between different manufacturing strategies, delivery time policies and plant efficiency. The method is applied to the production of engineering plastic materials.