Modeling Just-In-Time Production Systems: a Critical Review

Kanban-controlled serial manufacturing systems have recently received considerable attention. A large proportion of the literature on the topic is devoted to success stories. There is also an important model- based effort in gaining insight into the behavior of such systems, in identifying important success factors, and ultimately in optimizing various aspects of systems' performance. This paper focuses exclusively on model-based approaches in studying pull systems. Even though analytic models such as linear programming formulations or queueing approximations exist, the inherent complexity of pull systems makes simulation an essential tool in studying them. The objective of this paper is therefore to critically review selected papers that have recently appeared in refereed journals, highlight their approach, point out deficiencies, where appropriate, re-emphasize their message, and suggest new directions for research.