c) Process Planning (Routing): It is concerned with the selection of path or route which the raw material should follow to get transformed into finished product. It includes: i) Defining the layout. ii) Breaking down of complete operation to define individual operations in details. iii) Process sheet/route sheet development. iv) Finding the set up time and process time (standard time) for each operation using work measurement technique. v) Determination of lot size. vi) Determine the type and quality of material.
d) Scheduling: Scheduling deals with preparation of machine loads and fixing the start and completion dates for each operation. Machines have to be loaded according to their capability of performing a given task and delivery dates promised to the customer. This function includes: i) Loading each machine as per its capacity. ii) Determining the start and completion time for each operation. iii) Coordinating with sales department regarding delivery schedules.
e) Dispatching: This is the execution phase of planning. It is the process of setting production activities in motion through release of orders and instructions. It is authorizing the start of production activities by releasing materials, components, tools, fixtures and instruction sheets to the operator. The various activities under this function are as follows: i) Designating definite work to definite machine. 46