Distinguishing Features of Just‐in‐Time Systems in the Make‐to‐Order/Assemble‐to‐Order Environment*
研究了北美按订单生产和按订单组装企业中准时制系统的关键运营变量，发现消除浪费、减少换模时间、降低批量及精简供应商最为重要，而使用非本土供应商可能阻碍物料采购的准时制实施。
ABSTRACT Few studies of just‐in‐time (JIT) implementation examine their significance in make‐to‐order manufacturing environments. This study examines the relative importance of several operating variables that are characteristic features of JIT systems within such environments in North America. The results suggest that the most salient features of JIT for make‐to‐order and assemble‐to‐order firms are the elimination of waste (in the form of time and defects), reduced setup time, reduced lotsize, and a smaller pool of suppliers. In addition, the results suggest that the use of non‐domestic suppliers can possibly hinder efforts at JIT implementation of materials procurement.