An integrated push-pull manufacturing strategy

The recent interest in Japanese manufacturing techniques includes the acknowledgement of the demand ‘pull’ strategy as an alternative to more traditional production ‘push’ practices. In many cases, the pull approach includes a simple shop floor information system such as the Kanban system. The idea of simplicity has been emphasized in many manufacturing firms and is then often linked to a pull system. However, a pull strategy is not necessarily applicable to all manufacturing environments. This paper discusses push and pull systems and how these approaches can be combined in an integrated push-pull manufacturing strategy. A case study in a semi-repetitive, make-to-order environment illustrates some potential benefits from such an integrated approach. The major issue is the linking of the manufacturing strategy to the business strategy by changing the manufacturing planning and control focus. This has resulted in improved competitiveness primarily in terms of delivery dependability and production flexibility.