Clear symbols for efficient planning

Clear planning benefits both the efficiency and profitability of your joinery. The art of clear planning lies largely in the use of clear and immediately recognizable symbols for everyone.

Use of symbols

These symbols should display at a glance the status of the file and show who should take what action. Every possible status of a task is represented by these symbols, among others:

The lying dash.

Task is not applicable for this file and has no importance for the status and progress of this project. A task that is therefore not needed is indicated by this symbol.
Example: preparing an advance invoice.

The yellow danger sign

Task has yet to be performed but not immediately, there is still time for it.
Example: preparing a final invoice.

The red cross

Task that is needed, is already past due and therefore requires urgent action. This icon indicates that the task is on the responsible person's active task list.
Example: an order whose expected delivery time is longer than the time to site placement or an advance invoice that goes unpaid for too long.

The hand with red cross 

Task has been performed, but there is no confirmation yet and so wait and see.
Example : there is no confirmation from the supplier for an order or reservation request yet.

The hand with green checkmark

Task is done or confirmed and everything is on schedule and thus waiting for delivery or completion.
Example : the supplier has confirmed the order or request for reservation and delivery will be made on time. However, no delivery or completion has been made yet.

The green checkmark

Task is completely finished within the expected time. Everything is in order, no worries, this task is finished allowing the file to continue to be executed.

Planning is an interactive process

The status of each task is updated instantaneously by a good scheduling package and it shows what changes are made in the schedule, in an order confirmation or in deliveries.

Shifting in a schedule and making simulations in the style of: what if we swap these two projects, immediately and clearly gives a change in the state of a task. Thus, for example, "wait and see, it is confirmed" becomes  modified to "this is a problem, action required". 

Conclusion

A clear and quickly recognizable situation is a "must" for efficient planning. The use of clear symbols is an important tool. Thus, the challenging job of a planner is strongly supported by a solid planning package.

Wondering how this can be done in practice ? Take a moment contact on with Techwin.