Small- to medium-sized industries (SMIs) in Thailand face considerable production and inventory control (P&IC) problems. These problems greatly deteriorate the manufacturing competitiveness of SMIs. In order to alleviate the problems, their characteristics and causes should be analyzed. Some causes of the problems are manageable while others are non-manageable. The non-manageable problems must be considered as constraints for developing the P&IC systems. The P&IC systems suitable for the SMIs in Thailand should be developed based on these constraints. Particular research topics in this research area are listed as follows:
Analyses of Production and Inventory Control Problems in Thai Industries
There are various possible problems related to the production and inventory control (P&IC) systems in Thai industries. The nature, characteristics, and causes of such problems should be known in order to design an appropriate P&IC system or to improve the performance of the system. This research aims to identify the characteristics and also real causes of the encountered P&IC problems in Thai industries using an interview survey and case studies.
Guideline or Methodology for Developing the Appropriate P&IC System for Thai Industries
It is reasonable to assume that the situation of industries in developed and developing countries are different. Therefore, the P&IC systems widely used in developed countries, for example, Just-in-Time, MRP, and TOC (Theory of Constraints) may not be suitable for Thai industries. An entirely new system or a modification of certain existing systems may be required by Thai industries. This research aims to recommend P&IC techniques or systems suitable for Thai industries by focusing on aggregate planning, master production scheduling, detailed production and purchasing scheduling, and shop floor control.