A lean manufacturing methodology where raw materials and components are delivered to the production floor exactly when they are required, rather than being stockpiled in a warehouse. This minimizes inventory holding costs and exposes hidden process inefficiencies. The system relies heavily on predictable supplier lead times and stable production schedules.
We switched to JIT for the aluminum extrusions, which freed up half the warehouse but means we shut down if a truck gets a flat tire.
Also heard as
- just-in-time
Related terms
Just-in-time
A lean manufacturing model that aligns raw material orders directly with production schedules.
JIS
Just in sequence, an inventory strategy where parts arrive exactly in the order they will be assembled.
Demand-driven
A manufacturing strategy where production schedules are dictated by actual customer orders rather than sales forecasts.