In the master planning process, what is "time fencing"?

Time fencing is a crucial concept in the master planning process that involves dividing the planning horizon into specific segments or periods. This practice helps organizations manage and control changes in their production schedules effectively. By establishing these segments, companies can create clear boundaries regarding when changes can be made to the production plans versus when they must remain fixed.

The primary purpose of time fencing is to improve stability in production schedules and to reduce the volatility caused by frequent changes. This allows for a more predictable and manageable production environment, facilitating better resource allocation, workforce planning, and inventory management. For instance, with time fencing, a company might implement a "frozen" period during which no changes can be made to the schedule, followed by a "slushy" period where limited modifications are allowed, and finally an "open" period where changes can be freely made.

This structured approach enables organizations to maintain a balance between flexibility and consistency in managing their production operations.