The impact of just-in-time on production system performance, an analytical framework

This paper is part of a research programme being undertaken in Italy on the applicability of the just-in-time (JIT) approach. The programme includes both the development of methodological concepts to evaluate JIT applicability and an extensive survey of the value of JIT implementation as seen by Italian industry. Two levels of performances are identified: (1) First, the various performances at system level (critical manufacturing tasks) were the dimensions and measurement of productivity, service, quality and flexibility are defined. (2) Second, ‘operating conditions’ being the variables describing the characteristics of single production factors and their interconnection (such as efficiencies, capability, process flexibilty and lead times). The set of JIT techniques in the area of product, process, organisation, planning and control and supply are classified, the ways the techniques impact on operating conditions and, through them, on performance at production system level are analysed. A paradigm of JIT approach results, which explains the changes in the traditional trade-offs within overall performance.