tion is the use of Just-in-Time (JIT) systems. The aim of JIT systems is to produce the required items, of high quality, exactly at the time they are required. There is the pursuit of excellence at all stages with a climate of continuous improvement. The key elements of JIT are: A move towards zero inventory elimination of non-value added activities an emphasis on perfect quality i.e. zero defects Short set-ups a move towards a batch size of one 100% on time deliveries A constant drive for improvement Demand-pull manufacture The application of efficient production techniques such as JIT and the use of computers and robots (known as Advanced Manufacturing Technology - AMT) have enabled some manufacturing companies throughout the world to become very successful. Collectively these are known as World Class Manufacturers. The drive for productivity is also apparent in numerous service industries. Improved methods and the use of Information Technology have enabled banks and building societies to increase business yet at the same time to reduce the number of staff, whilst British Telecom have reduced staff in each of the years since privatization even though more services are now offered and turnover has increased. The same movement can also be seen in the privatized utilities for electricity, gas and water. Changing Employment Patterns A long term seeming inexorable change in employment is taking place in Britain and other developed countries. There are now many more part-time workers or workers on temporary contracts. More women are employed than men and organizations are seeking to gain flexibility and lower costs by shrinking their core work force of full-time employees and employing sufficient part-time or temporary workers to cope with fluctuations in demand. In many firms just-in4ime inventory management is now accompanied by just-in-time labor. In addition, changes in manufacturing techniques, the growth in the use of technology ...
