Low-cost computer methods as a production planning tool

Advanced programmable desk calculators and mini-computers can provide an invaluable aid to production management. Highly effective systems can be designed at a fraction of the cost associated with conventional computing. The paper describes how a desk-top computer can be used in the process of deriving standard work-measurement data, especially for highly-variable work. Once the standard data has been compiled at known accuracy levels, and the correct degree of precision, then the desk-top computer can be gainfully employed as a tool in the estimating process. Standard data can be applied rapidly and with great accuracy to the various key parameters that affect the cost of a job. This is valuable at the quotation stage, as well as at the shop-floor level. It is not only in the labour content of a job cost that desk computers have apart to play. Two mini-computer systems are described that enable high material productivity to be achieved. The specific examples chosen are semi-standard packages for reducing cutting waste when cutting regular shaped parts, eg rectangles, from sheet stock. Similar approaches can be made when cutting other shapes.