Manufacturing Glossary

Poka-Yoke is a lean manufacturing method that uses simple mechanisms to prevent human errors from occurring in a process.

Predictive maintenance uses data analysis and monitoring tools to detect potential equipment failures before they happen.

Preventive Maintenance (PM) is regularly scheduled work performed on equipment to lessen the likelihood of it failing.

Process manufacturing is a production method that creates goods by mixing ingredients or raw materials using a formula or recipe.

Procure-to-Pay is the complete process of acquiring goods or services, from the point of order to the final payment.

Product Information Management (PIM) is the process of managing all the data required to market and sell products through various distribution channels.

A production line is a factory setup where a product moves through a sequence of stations to be built.

Production planning is the process of deciding what to produce, in what quantity, and when, to meet customer demand using available resources.

Production scheduling is the process of assigning specific jobs to specific resources and work centers over a specific period of time.

A programmable logic controller (PLC) is a rugged industrial computer that automates and controls machines and processes on the shop floor.

A purchase order (PO) is a commercial document issued by a buyer to a seller, indicating types, quantities, and agreed prices for products or services.