Batch and Queue

In traditional manufacturing, there is a tendency to run large lots, or batches. This occurs for a variety of reasons—large distances between processes, long setup times, or simply poor processes.

When the batch is transferred to the downstream process, it sits in line. That is the ‘queuing’ part of batch and queue.

Batching and queuing tends to drive up inventory and lead time and creates inefficiency in an operation. It also increases the space needed for production.

The opposite of batch and queue production is one-piece flow.