Example of planning based on infinite versus finite capacity

The main difference between planning based on finite capacity and planning based on infinite capacity, is that the production orders that have already been scheduled are taken into account when the finite method is used.

Finite planning is generally used for machines, because the time required for operations tends to be fixed and there is little flexibility. When scheduling people, there is a greater margin. Sometimes all people have to do is set up a machine, after which they can do other work while the machine is working. Labor planning is therefore often more flexible, and as a result, labor is usually scheduled on an infinite basis.

In this example, both planning methods are displayed side-by-side for the same production order, to give you a clear insight into the different planning approaches.

Production order 0002 must be scheduled. The order has the following properties:

• The order has one operation line.
• On working days, the capacity available for this operation is 8 hours per day.
• The number of hours to plan per day is 8 hours.
• The operation for the production order takes 8 hours.
• The planned end date is November 30.
• The production order is back-scheduled.

For another production order (0001), one hour has already been scheduled on November 30.

Infinite planning

Production order 0002 is scheduled for 8 hours on November 30. As one hour has already been scheduled on that day for order 0001, there is an overload.

Finite planning

For order 0002, 7 hours are scheduled on November 30, because not enough capacity is available on that day for 8 hours. The remaining hour is scheduled on November 29.