A Type B Pull System - Sequential Pull Systems and FIFO Lanes

When people talk about pull systems, they are often referring to a replenishment pull system, sometimes called a type "A" pull system.   What is often missed is that there is an alternative to a type "A" pull system.  We call this a sequenced or sequential pull system.  This type "B" system works well when maintaining a sequence of work but controlling the time and quantity between operations is important.  Unlike a replenishment pull system, a type "B" pull system does not require storing inventory by part number between operations.  Instead, jobs, parts, or information is stored in FIFO (First In First Out) lanes that limit the quantity and maintain the sequence of work between operations.  Both type "A" and type "B" pull systems are excellent, and each has its place within a manufacturing, healthcare, or other service organization.  And, in case you were wondering, there is a type "C" pull system, but this is really a mix of "A" and "B" in which some products are utilizing replenishment pull and some are utilizing sequential pull through the same value stream.  Following is our new video on the topic of sequential pull.

Faster Changeovers and Smaller Batches

Our October 2011 newsletter is out, and we're talking about utilizing quick changeover to achieve smaller batches. Why would we want smaller batches? Smaller batches allow us more flexibility to build what our customer needs in the quanitity that it is needed; small batches allow us to shorten lead-times and reduce inventory. To learn more, visit:
http://www.emsstrategies.com/newsletter100111.htm.