METHOD OF OPERATING A PRODUCTION SYSTEM

A method of operating a production system that includes a job optimization unit and at least two machines, wherein each machine is allocated to a process optimization unit. The job optimization unit receives a job request and broadcasts a manufacturing request based on the job request to some or all of the process optimization units. The process optimization units analyze the manufacturing request based on the current status of the machine, processes allocated to the machine and resources needed to complete at least a part of the manufacturing request and report to the job optimization unit which parts of the manufacturing request they can produce along with production parameters. The job optimization unit collects the reports, generates an optimized production plan, and broadcasts a manufacturing plan which is based on the production plan to the process optimization units. The machines produce products according to the manufacturing plan.