What is real-time production planning?
Traditional production planning works with fixed schedules that are already outdated before the working day begins. Breakdowns, delays and rush orders require continuous manual adjustments. According to the Fraunhofer Institute, the average factory loses 15–20% of production capacity through suboptimal planning.
AI production planning combines real-time machine data with order status, personnel availability and supplier data to continuously optimise the schedule.
How does it work?
The system monitors machine status, cycle times and order progress in real time. When a disruption occurs — a machine breakdown, rush order or material shortage — AI immediately recalculates the optimal schedule for the rest of the day or week.
The planner sees the impact of every disruption immediately: which orders are delayed, which machines are available and what is the optimal reallocation. Scenario analysis makes it possible to compare different options.
What does it deliver?
Manufacturing companies report 20% higher OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), 30% less unplanned downtime through better reallocation and 15% shorter lead times. According to McKinsey, AI production planning improves on-time delivery by 25–35%.