What is Just in Time?

Just-in-time is a type of stock control method used by businesses. It ensures stock arrives ‘just in time’ for when there is a need for it for the business. It helps a business to cut down on storage space/costs.

Just In Time is a method of managing the raw materials a firm needs to produce its goods. It involves the firm receiving the materials Just In Time for the production process, thereby reducing the need for big warehouses to stockpile the materials in. Just In Time originated in Japan and can also be called lean manufacturing or lean production. The method improves production efficiency but can be subject to a halt in production if the supply chain is disrupted, e.g. a supplier fails to deliver on time. Many moons ago, when I was a work experience student at Brother UK (at the time they made photocopying machines, sewing machines and typewriters) given they are a Japanese firm they used Just In Time for all their production lines. When it worked it was great but when a supplier failed to turn up with the raw materials/components there was many an angry manager's face because production targets were not met. However, overall it is an efficient and competitive method of production.