Complex scheduling of a printing process

The intricate nature of scheduling at a printing company is described. Many of its subtle operational complexities and sophisticated work order selection rules are explained in depth to emphasize the highly refined nature of a strongly sequence-dependent process. A simulation-based scheduling tool integrated with an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system is used to capture the required level of process detail. The results are comprehensive schedules that reflect the collective needs of the entire production process, improved understanding of interdepartmental effects, increased productivity, better visibility of future production requirements, and faster schedule turn around times.