Advanced Planning and Scheduling, (APS) is the technology gateway to more efficient use of production resources for both process and discrete manufacturers. An APS software system enables planners and schedules to automate, optimize, and compare production plans and schedules that reflect actual resource capacity and material availability, synchronize across plants and work centers to accurately manage labor and inventory, meet delivery dates and increase profitability.
When implemented correctly, APS solves planning challenges such as: production bottlenecks, machine failures, workforce interruption, costly line changeovers, order expedites, and materials shortages.
In short, a full-featured APS system optimizes the entire manufacturing process because end-users:
- Increase equipment utilization and output
- Cut excess inventory
- Shorten product lead times
- Secure promised delivery dates
- Speed cash-to-cash cycles
- Boost profitability
Wikipedia Definition of Advanced Planning & Scheduling
“PlanetTogether’s APS was clearly designed by people that fully understand manufacturing scheduling. It’s got the upfront “sex and sizzle”, but it’s not just for show—it’s the real thing.” -Andy Nunez, Nextec Systems
