Flexible just in time modelling

Just In Time (JIT) is a Japanese manufacturing philosophy. It involves a set of relative1y innovative manufacturing strategies which are considered different to traditional practices. This research is focused on the development of a flexible JIT modelling system which can be used by small and medium sized manufacturing firms to determine the potential impact of a full scale JIT implementation in their factory. As there are so many potential benefits from JIT manufacturing, many smaller companies may not be able to achieve all of the benefits in one go and may want to focus on selective but tangible benefits in a progressive manner; The proposed system can help the company to achieve a tactical advantage by selecting the appropriate benefits suitable for their specific requirements. During this research, key elements of JIT manufacturing are identified and grouped into three categories, namely (1) Tools and Techniques, (2) Human Resources and (3) Supplier Aspects, so that they can be deployed in any combination according to the company's requirements. The major benefits arising from the implementation ofthese elements are also identified. Using the Pearson Correlation technique and Multiple Linear Regression, a relationship between specific elements of JIT manufacturing and their respective benefits has been established