Multi-criteria models for capacity analysis and aggregate planning in manufacturing systems

In this paper, a model-based approach to aggregate capacity analysis is developed and incorporated into a decision support system intended to aid in planning manufacturing systems and evaluating alternative control policies. The proposed models do integrate multiple conflicting objectives of the manufacturing strategy, by using different quantitative measures of productivity, service to the customers and flexibility. Furthermore, the proposed methodology represents a contribution to understanding the quantitative interrelations among several components of a manufacturing system, such as aggregate capacity, production volume, level of subcontracting, release rules for production orders, level of inventories and work in process, lead times and service times.