Rule-based vs. optimisation-based order release in workload control: A simulation study of a MTO manufacturer

The paper presents a simulation study that compares multi-period models for order release optimisation (Input/Output Control with fixed lead times and a clearing function model) with a traditional workload control-based order release mechanism (control of aggregate workload with periodic release). For the optimisation models the study assumes periodic re-planning and thus can also assess the effects of demand predictability. The simulation model is based on a practical case of a manufacturer of optical storage media. The results indicate that optimisation models for order release planning largely outperform traditional workload control-based order release mechanisms even in the case of poor demand forecasts. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.