Quality impacts on JIT performance measures: a factory simulation

The authors first present a rationale for understanding JIT (just-in-time) as an interdependent set of elements which must be properly meshed into a coherent system. They then document the interaction between the JIT-K (JIT with kanban) system and the level of quality by measuring the system characteristics as the level of quality changes. These system characteristics include system output, utilization rates, and in-process inventory at work stations and buffers. In addition, the authors measure the effect of the number of kanbans per stage on the system. The results of this study can provide a strategy for the implementation of JIT allowing for small, but continuing quality improvements over time.<>