On Using Buffer Stock to Combat Schedule Instability

Schedule instability is a major problem in companies using material requirements planning (MRP) systems. The effectivenesss of using buffer stock to combat nervousness in the master production schedule (MPS) of an MRP system is investigated. An example scenario illustrates the need for caution in using buffer stock for reducing schedule instability. Detailed simulation results are presented which suggest the need for further research to understand the role of buffer stock in achieving stable master production schedules.