Integrated pull manufacturing-the integration of MRP and JIT systems

The implementation and integration of a mixture of material requirements planning (MRP) and just-in-time/total-quality-control (JIT/TQC) systems at the AT&T Denver works are discussed. This task was especially challenging because of the high complexity and high demand volatility of the product. Furthermore, MRP and JIT/TQC systems can be in conflict if applied incorrectly. The authors review the criteria used in selecting production control systems and discuss some of the analytical techniques used to implement these systems and their hybrids. They conclude with a synopsis on how the various and potentially conflicting systems were integrated to achieve the best of both approaches.<>