This paper presents a review of the most common methodologies used as tools for supporting the production planning process of manufacturing systems. The industrial practices, known as evaluative techniques, and the optimization methods, known as generative techniques are highlighted. The way these techniques work is discussed, and their advantages and drawbacks are analyzed. It is concluded that optimization is a complementary tool for overcoming certain deficiencies found during the application of industrial practices and is essential for production planning.
MRP; JIT; mathematical programming; production planning
