The just-in-time philosophy: A literature review

The just-in-time (JIT) literature is reviewed to identify 221 refereed articles. To examine the significance of JIT implementation, global productivity comparison articles are summarized. The JIT, MRP and OPT comparisons research is examined. Classification of the JIT-practices-articles according to the topic areas is presented. Critical variables, discussed in the JIT implementation in manufacturing articles, are classified according to the four basic tenets of the JIT philosophy. Eleven critical variables are identified for the elimination of waste tenet. For employee involvement in decision-making, supplier participation and total quality control tenets, five, ten, and eight critical variables, respectively, are listed. To ensure a comprehensive review of the JIT literature, an extensive bibliography and some reviews of books on the JIT philosophy are provided. Future research directions are discussed.