JIT and TQM

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Just-in-time (JIT)

The just-in-time (JIT) approach to conducting the activities of an organisation is often incorrectly considered to relate solely to the manufacturing environment.

In fact, just-in-time is a very broad philosophy that emphasises simplification and continuously reducing waste in each and every area of business activity.

Total quality management (TQM)

Total quality management (TQM) is an approach that seeks to improve quality and performance which will meet or exceed customer expectations.

It applies a zero defect philosophy and develops a culture of continuous improvement which focuses on meeting customers’ expectations.

Where the management of an organisation is considering the implementation of a just-in-time philosophy they need to give detailed consideration to the following:

Consideration to follow

  1. Employee involvement should be actively encouraged. The successful operation of just-in-time requires that workers possess a flexibility of both attitude and aptitude.

  2. The fundamental requirement to ensure that the level of quality satisfies the customer.

  3. A constant focus on the simplification of products and processes in order to maximise the utilisation of available resources.

  4. The creation of a uniform factory load which will enable the speed of manufacture to mirror the demand of customers.

  5. The minimisation of set-up times as no value is added at this point in the manufacturing process.

  6. The factory layout to be adopted. The majority of factories operating just-in-time manufacturing operations have adopted a U-shaped layout of machinery. This layout facilitates the flow of components, thereby minimising transportation activities while maximising efficiency.

  7. The operation of a 'pull' system which produces products for the time when they are required by customers.

  8. The fundamental need for excellent relationships with suppliers, putting emphasis on flexibility and good communication channels.

Key features of operating in a JIT and TQM environment

Therefore, the key features of companies operating in a JIT and TQM environment can be summarized as follows

  1. high level of automation

  2. high levels of overheads and low levels of direct labour costs

  3. customized products produced in small batches

  4. low stocks

  5. emphasis on quality

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