Ranking of generalised multi-stage KANBAN policies

We consider KANBAN type batch-ordering policies in a multi-stage production–inventory system. KANBAN policies and various modifications of such policies may be interpreted as installation stock (Q, { }r)-policies with constraints on the number of outstanding orders. If the same constraints are applied also to MRP and echelon stock (Q,r)-policies, the ranking lists established by Axsäter and Rosling for such policies remain valid. The result is based on new definitions of the inventory positions, and suggests new classes of generalised KANBAN type batch-ordering policies with potentially improved performance.