JIT

The abbreviation for Just In Time. A manufacturing process in which materials arrive as close as possible to the time required. Implementation of just-in-time techniques is done to reduce lot sizes, reduce setup times, slash work-in-process inventory, reduce waste, minimize non-value-added activities, improve throughput, and reduce manufacturing cycle time. JIT production typically involves use of “pull” signals to initiate production activity, in contrast to workorder (“push”) systems in which production scheduling is based on forecasted demand rather than actual orders. In many “pull” systems, a customer order/shipment date triggers final assembly, which, in turn, forces replenishment of component inventory at upstream stages of production.