Optimal method for changing the number of kanbans in the e-Kanban system and its applications

The Toyota Motor Corporation has recently developed a new kanban system called ‘e-Kanban’, which is a parts ordering information system that operates within the communications network established between Toyota and its suppliers. One of the goals for developing the e-Kanban system was to introduce an efficient means for properly changing the number of kanbans once the required number has been calculated, as changing the number of kanbans in the kanban system directly affects the order quantity. Consequently, it is very important to monitor carefully and control changes in the number of kanbans. The paper investigates and proposes an effective method for changing the number of kanbans using the e-Kanban system. Applying this method to three problems, it is shown that the e-Kanban system can be implemented more efficiently and effectively than the original kanban system.