| Abstract: | Order release occurs when orders are released to the shop floor for processing. An order release mechanism (ORM) selectively releases orders to improve shop management and performance. This paper focuses on the question of how to select and develop better ORMs, providing guidelines for practice. We develop a number of propositions on how an ORM should be established and the impact of implementing an ORM. To test the validity of these propositions, we consider three real different automated manufacturing systems. For each system, ORMs are developed and implemented in simulation models. Analysis of the experimental results suggests that some propositions are true under all situations, whereas the degree of validity of others is dependent on variables like system type, and the levels of other design variables. We conjecture that all the propositions can be accepted when the volume of production is high. We use the analysis and the propositions to generate guidelines for practice and areas for future research. |
