MRP vs. demand-driven MRP: Towards an objective comparison

The Demand-Driven MRP (DDMRP) is a recent method focusing on manufacturing and distribution flows that is supposed to manage uncertainties better than traditional Manufacturing Resources Planning (MRP). Nevertheless, this assertion has never been scientifically demonstrated. In this paper, a case study is investigated in order to objectively and quantitatively compare these two systems. A Discrete-Event Simulation (DES) approach is used to evaluate the impacts on systems behaviours regarding both management methods. The final goal of our work research is to objectivise the reality of the DDMRP benefits.