This metric calculates the absolute time difference between the start of the first task in a sequence and the completion of the final task. Planners use it to evaluate the efficiency of a schedule across multiple machines or workstations. Minimizing this duration directly increases machine utilization and overall factory throughput.
We need to optimize the routing on line four because our makespan for this batch is bleeding into the third shift.
A shorter makespan usually means less idle time, but pushing it too low can strip away the buffer needed to handle unexpected machine faults.
Related terms
Bottleneck
The slowest or most restrictive step in a production process that dictates the maximum overall output rate.
Downtime
A period when a machine or production line is halted and unable to produce goods.
Waiting time
The period a product or batch sits idle before moving to the next step in the manufacturing process.
Takt time
The maximum allowable time to produce one unit in order to meet customer demand.