DSS for Job Shop Machine Scheduling

Presents a microcomputer-based interactive decision support system (DSS) to assist managers to improve decision making for machine scheduling in a job shop environment. The system downloads data from a factory information system, and schedules work into the appropriate work centres. The system produces sequences using a rule set that incorporates set-up time reduction, shortest processing time (SPT) sequencing, downstream requirements, and job due dates. The system automatically expedites where required, and provides an interactive interface to the decision maker. A SLAM II-based computer simulation model guides system development and provides a test bed for policy decisions with regard to implementation of the DSS.