Optimising the ordering and inventory process for an efficient workflow in machine manufacturing

This thesis was performed at IMS in Almelo. This machine manufacturer wants to become an OEM for a specific machine, and want to know how best to structure their ordering and inventory process. The main reason they struggle with ordering, is a high lead time variability. This research aims to set order dates for all components through a simulation optimisation study. The high lead time variability showed that a fairly simple 'rule of thumb' provided good results. Decreasing the lead time variability however, seems to be the best way to decrease costs. By using a structured planning, using safety lead times for clusters of components, the way of working in the purchasing department should become more efficient.