Re-planning support system for make-to-order production with reserved resources

Abstract

Make-to-order production is often organized into projects with their own objectives. Such projects use strategic and critical resources that must be reserved at a strategic or a tactical planning level. When external resources need to be taken into consideration, they must be reserved based on their set of free time windows. A medium-term planning support system for the manager of a project where external resources are critical is proposed. By providing explanations for project inconsistencies, this system enables the decision-maker to restore consistency. After creating the initial medium-term plan, planning activity essentially consists in updating the existing schedule of a project when unexpected events arise. These may be due to internal or external disturbances. Indicators are proposed to help the manager follow the dynamic impact the disturbances will have on the project.