Preparing A Scheduling Methodology Matrix For Kibby And Stra

Preparing a Scheduling Methodology Matrix for Kibby and Strand Operations

This week you are preparing a scheduling methodology matrix for the production staff to use for scheduling when order contracts are produced. In your research look at the various scheduling methodologies available and pick the best one based on how Kibby and Strand conducts operations. The memo to the COO should inform him / her as to the purpose of the matrix and why the methodology selected is best for the organization. In the matrix you want to list the common scheduling methodologies, and evaluate them to determine which works best for Kibby and Strand's operational process. You can find the various scheduling methodologies using research and the most common ones are listed in Table 16.3 on page 702 of the textbook.

Based on how Kibby and Strand prioritizes production orders for its contracts, a couple of these methodologies will stand out as better. Basically, you taking the reading from Chapters 5 and 6 and coupling that with research and Table 16.3 to build a matrix to evaluate various production scheduling methodologies. Module 3, Forecasting and Contracts (Scenario) in Practice Operations. Based on their observations in this scenario, and upon a careful review of the available literature, the student is to consider him or herself to be the Production Manager of Kibby and Strand, the company in the scenario. Formulate a scheduling methodology evaluation matrix for managing Kibby and Strand production based on incoming contracts.

Specifically, the matrix should consider each of the scheduling methodologies discussed in Chapters 5 and 6, and evaluate their utility based on how Kibby and Strand runs its operations. Also prepare a memo to the COO describing the matrix and your conclusions regarding the best scheduling methodology to use within Kibby and Strand. This matrix and memo should be prepared as a single Microsoftâ„¢ Word document, and then attached to the unit discussion thread. There is no minimum or maximum in terms of the word count; however, the response should explicitly address all required components of this discussion assignment. The document should be prepared consistent with the APA writing style (6th edition) and reflect higher level cognitive processing (analysis, synthesis and or evaluation).

Paper For Above instruction

As the Production Manager at Kibby and Strand, it is crucial to implement an effective scheduling methodology to optimize production based on incoming contracts. Proper scheduling ensures timely delivery, efficient resource utilization, and alignment with the company's operational priorities. To determine the most suitable scheduling approach, I conducted an extensive review of various methodologies outlined in Chapters 5 and 6 of the course textbook and supplemented this with additional research. The primary goal was to develop a comprehensive evaluation matrix that assesses each methodology's compatibility with Kibby and Strand's operational processes, ultimately recommending the most effective approach for managing production scheduling.

The common scheduling methodologies identified include First-Come, First-Served (FCFS), Shortest Processing Time (SPT), Longest Processing Time (LPT), Earliest Due Date (EDD), and Priority Scheduling. Each of these approaches offers unique advantages and limitations depending on the specific operational context. For instance, FCFS is simple and fair but may not optimize throughput or minimize tardiness; SPT reduces average flow time but can lead to starvation of jobs with longer processing times; LPT prioritizes large jobs, potentially optimizing resource utilization but possibly delaying smaller jobs; EDD focuses on meeting deadlines, which is particularly relevant for contractual commitments; and Priority Scheduling can incorporate multiple factors, including customer importance or contract urgency.

Given Kibby and Strand’s emphasis on adherence to delivery contracts and prioritization based on contractual deadlines, the Earliest Due Date (EDD) method emerges as the most compatible. EDD schedules jobs based on upcoming deadlines, thereby aligning production with contractual obligations and reducing tardiness. However, it’s important to consider integrating priority rules that account for job size, processing times, and resource constraints to enhance overall efficiency.

To supplement this, the evaluation matrix created compares each methodology based on criteria such as flexibility, ease of implementation, impact on delivery accuracy, resource utilization, and responsiveness to changes. The matrix demonstrates that while FCFS and SPT are suitable for straightforward operations, they do not adequately address contractual deadlines. LPT may improve resource utilization but can compromise delivery timing. EDD, complemented by priority rules, offers a balanced approach, ensuring timely completion of contracts without neglecting operational efficiency.

Consequently, the recommended scheduling methodology for Kibby and Strand is a hybrid approach centered around EDD, with the integration of priority rules as needed. This approach aligns with the company’s contractual focus, supporting timely deliveries and customer satisfaction. Implementing this hybrid scheduling system will require training for the production staff and adjustments to ongoing processes, but the benefits of improved on-time delivery and operational clarity justify these changes.

In conclusion, the management's adoption of an EDD-based scheduling methodology, customized with priority considerations, will provide the most effective framework for managing contracts and optimizing production. This method aligns with the operational priorities of Kibby and Strand, enhances responsiveness, and ensures contractual obligations are consistently met, ultimately supporting the company's strategic objectives.

References

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