Capacity Planning and Utilization: Techniques and links in the Supply Chain

ATTAHIR Oussama

Abstract

In this article, we discuss the role of capacity planning and utilization in Manufacturing Planning and Control (MPC) systems. We mainly focus on techniques to determine the capacity requirements involved in a production plan, production master plan or detailed material plans. This article is organized around these topics:

• The role of capacity planning in MPC systems.
• Capacity Planning and Control Techniques: How Capacity Requirements can be estimated and Capacity Utilization Controlled?
• Plan capacity and materials simultaneously: how to apply limited planning techniques and what are the costs / benefits of these techniques?
• Capacity management, planning and utilization: What are the most effective management decisions?