Functions of Production Planning and Control (PPC):
[1] Material Function: It includes the specification of materials, delivery dates, variety reduction procurement (Standardization) and make or buy decisions.
[2] Machine and Equipments: It includes the detailed analysis of available production facilities, equipment down time, maintenance procedure and schedules.
[3] Methods: It includes the analysis of alternatives and selection of best method with due considerations.
[4] Process Planning (Routing): It includes fixation of path of travel, breaking down of operations and deciding the set up time and process time for each operation.
[5] Estimating: It is carried out using extensive analysis of operations along with methods and routing and a standard time for operation are established using work measurement techniques.
[6] Loading and Scheduling: It includes Loading of machines, determining the start and completion times for each operation and to coordinate with sales department regarding delivery schedules.
[7] Dispatching: It includes assigning the definite work to definite machines, to issue required materials from stores, to issue jigs, fixtures and make them available at correct point of use, to record start and finish time of each job etc.
[8] Expediting: It includes identification of bottlenecks and delays, to advise action plans for correcting the errors and to see that production rate is in line with schedule.
[9] Inspection: This forms the basis for knowing the limitations with respect to methods, processes etc.
[10] Evaluation: It consists of through analysis of all the factors influencing PPC which helps to identify the weak spots and corrective action.