9609 · 9.3.5
Operations planning flashcards
Revision flashcards for Cambridge 9609 Operations planning (syllabus 9.3.5). Flip, recall, then mark a real past-paper question.
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Operations planning chain?
Forecast → MPS → MRP → purchase/production orders.
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Master production schedule?
States what finished products to make and when.
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MRP?
Uses BOM + MPS to calculate raw material/component needs.
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Bill of materials (BOM)?
List of components per finished product — MRP input.
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Forecast error impact?
Over-forecast → excess stock; under → stock-outs (8.1.3).
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ERP link?
ERP automates MPS/MRP with live inventory (9.3.3).
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Rolling schedule?
Plan updated regularly as new demand data arrives.
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Capacity check?
MPS must fit available capacity — link 4.3.1.
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What is a Master Production Schedule (MPS)?
A detailed plan that states which end products are required, how many are needed, and when they need to be produced. It links demand forecasts to specific production activities, considering capacity and inventory.
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What are the three key inputs for an MRP I system?
1. The Master Production Schedule (MPS). 2. The Bill of Materials (BOM). 3. The Inventory Records File (IRF).
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Define 'Bill of Materials' (BOM).
A comprehensive, structured list of all the raw materials, components, and sub-assemblies required to produce one unit of a finished product. It is essential for MRP calculations.
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What is the primary purpose of demand forecasting in operations?
To predict future customer demand for products, enabling a business to plan production levels, manage inventory, and allocate resources effectively to meet that demand without excessive waste or stock-outs.
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How does MRP II (Manufacturing Resource Planning) differ from MRP I?
MRP II expands on MRP I by integrating all manufacturing resources, including finance (budgets), marketing (sales data), and HR (labour planning), into the planning process. It is a business-wide system, not just a materials control tool.