Manufacturing Systems I from edX

In this course, part of the Principles of Manufacturing MicroMasters program, you will learn how to analyze manufacturing systems to optimize performance and control cost. You will develop an understanding of seemingly opaque production lines with a particular emphasis on random disruptive events – their effects and how to deal with them, as well as inventory dynamics and management.

Manufacturing systems are complex and require decision-making skills and analytical analysis. Managers and practitioners use a wide variety of methods to optimize the performance of manufacturing systems and control costs. The many processes and functions involved in building and maintaining these systems demand a high-level of knowledge.

In this course, you will learn about these various methods and processes. We will start with a review of probability and statistics, and then cover topics in linear programming, queueing theory, inventory management and the Toyota Production System (TPS). Lastly, we will introduce stochastic manufacturing systems models developed here at MIT.

The topics covered will provide the basis for learners to continue into the manufacturing field in such roles as an operations manager or supply chain manager.

Develop the skills needed for competence and competitiveness in today’s manufacturing industry with the Principles of Manufacturing MicroMasters Credential, designed and delivered by MIT’s #1-ranked Mechanical Engineering department in the world. Learners who pass the 8 courses in the program will earn the MicroMasters Credential and qualify to apply to gain credit towards MIT’s Master of Engineering in Advanced Manufacturing & Design program.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Applications of basic probability models
Building and solving optimization models

Inventory dynamics and management
Philosophy behind the toyota production system (tps)

Applications of basic probability models
Building and solving optimization models
Inventory dynamics and management
Philosophy behind the toyota production system (tps)

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Strengthens an existing foudnation for intermediate learners

Taught by David Hardt and Stanley B. Gershwin, who are recognized for their work in manufacturing

Develops inventory dynamics and management, which are core skills for operations and supply chain managers

Builds a strong foundation for beginners in manufacturing systems

Examines random disruptive events, a highly relevant topic in manufacturing

Taught by professors from MIT, #1-ranked Mechanical Engineering department in the world

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Manufacturing Systems I with these activities:

Compile Course Notes

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Consolidate and organize course notes to enhance understanding and retention of manufacturing principles.

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Review and summarize key concepts from each lecture.
Create a comprehensive set of notes covering all course materials.
Review notes regularly to reinforce learning.

Solve Probability and Statistics Problems

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Sharpen your understanding of probability and statistics, which are essential for analyzing and managing manufacturing systems.

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Review Basic Concepts
Solve Practice Problems
Analyze Real-World Data

The Toyota Production System

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Gain insights into the principles and implementation of the Toyota Production System for improving manufacturing efficiency.

View Toyota Production System on Amazon

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Read the book thoroughly to understand the concepts behind the Toyota Production System.
Identify key principles and practices that can be applied to manufacturing systems.
Discuss the implications of the Toyota Production System for modern manufacturing.

Eight other activities

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Explore Advanced Optimization Techniques

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Enhance understanding of optimization techniques used in manufacturing systems through guided tutorials.

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Identify and research advanced optimization techniques relevant to manufacturing.
Follow online tutorials and complete exercises to apply these techniques.
Apply learned techniques to solve practical manufacturing problems.

Write a Case Study on Inventory Management

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Apply your knowledge of inventory management by analyzing a real-world scenario and developing strategies to optimize inventory levels.

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Choose a Case Study
Research and Analyze Data
Develop Recommendations
Write the Report

Discuss Manufacturing Case Studies

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Engage in group discussions to analyze real-world manufacturing scenarios and exchange insights with peers.

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Identify and select relevant manufacturing case studies.
Facilitate discussions among peers, exploring different perspectives.
Summarize key learnings and insights from the discussions.

Practice probability distributions

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Practice probability distributions to improve your understanding of random events in manufacturing systems.

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Review the definitions of probability distributions.
Solve practice problems on different types of probability distributions.
Apply probability distributions to analyze real-world manufacturing scenarios.

Build a Model Manufacturing System

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Simulate a real-world manufacturing system to practice optimizing performance and managing costs.

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Define the System
Identify Bottlenecks
Design and Implement Improvements
Monitor and Evaluate Results

Inventory Management Simulation

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Build a simulation model to analyze and improve inventory management strategies within manufacturing systems.

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Define the scope and objectives of the simulation.
Gather data and develop a model of the manufacturing system.
Implement and validate the simulation model.
Analyze the simulation results and identify opportunities for improvement.
Present the findings and recommendations to stakeholders.

Design an Inventory Control System

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Demonstrate understanding of inventory management principles by designing and implementing an inventory control system.

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Define the requirements and specifications for the inventory control system.
Design the system architecture and functionality.
Implement the system using appropriate tools and technologies.
Test and evaluate the performance of the system.
Document the system design and implementation.

Support Junior Manufacturing Students

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Enhance understanding by assisting junior manufacturing students with their coursework.

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Identify opportunities to provide support to junior students.
Offer guidance and assistance in understanding course concepts.
Share your knowledge and experiences related to manufacturing.

Career center

Learners who complete Manufacturing Systems I will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Industrial Engineer

Industrial Engineers determine the most efficient and cost-effective way to utilize people, materials, information, and energy in order to make a product or provide a service. Manufacturing Systems I will provide you with an understanding of manufacturing systems that will be vital to optimizing and controlling manufacturing costs. This course covers topics such as inventory management, queueing theory, and the Toyota Production System, which are essential for Industrial Engineers to understand in order to design and improve manufacturing systems.

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Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analysts use advanced analytical techniques to solve complex problems that arise in business, industry, and government. You will effectively use the knowledge gained in Manufacturing Systems I to understand the operations of a system, gather relevant data, and build and solve optimization models to improve decision-making in various sectors.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst

Manufacturing Engineer

Manufacturing Engineers research, design, develop, test, and oversee the manufacturing of products. By taking Manufacturing Systems I, you will develop analytical skills to identify and solve manufacturing problems, improve production processes, and increase efficiency. This understanding of manufacturing systems is essential for success as a Manufacturing Engineer.

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Quality Control Inspector

Quality Control Inspectors are responsible for ensuring that products meet the required standards of quality. The knowledge gained from Manufacturing Systems I will help you in understanding the principles of quality control, statistical process control, and inspection techniques. It will also provide you with the foundation to analyze and improve manufacturing processes to maintain high-quality standards.

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Production Manager

Production Managers oversee the production process in manufacturing facilities. By taking Manufacturing Systems I, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of manufacturing systems, including production planning, scheduling, and control. This knowledge will enable you to effectively manage production processes, optimize resource allocation, and improve overall production efficiency.

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Supply Chain Manager

Supply Chain Managers oversee the flow of goods and services from suppliers to customers. Manufacturing Systems I will help you to understand the principles of supply chain management, including inventory management, logistics, and transportation. This knowledge is critical for Supply Chain Managers to effectively plan, execute, and control the supply chain to meet customer demand.

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Inventory Manager

Inventory Managers are responsible for planning, organizing, and controlling the flow of inventory. The knowledge gained from Manufacturing Systems I will provide you with a strong foundation in inventory management, including forecasting, inventory control techniques, and safety stock management. This will enable you to optimize inventory levels, reduce costs, and improve customer service.

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Purchasing Manager

Purchasing Managers are responsible for acquiring goods and services for their organizations. Manufacturing Systems I will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of purchasing management, including supplier selection, negotiation, and contract management. This knowledge will enable you to effectively manage the purchasing process, reduce costs, and ensure the quality of purchased goods and services.

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Logistics Manager

Logistics Managers plan, implement, and control the movement of goods and services. Manufacturing Systems I will help you to understand logistics principles, including transportation, warehousing, and distribution. This knowledge will enable you to design and manage efficient logistics networks that meet customer needs and optimize costs.

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Operations Manager

Operations Managers oversee the day-to-day operations of a business. Manufacturing Systems I will provide you with a strong foundation in operations management, including production planning, scheduling, and control. This knowledge will enable you to effectively manage operations, improve efficiency, and meet customer demand.

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Project Manager

Project Managers plan, execute, and control projects. Manufacturing Systems I may provide you with some fundamental concepts in project management, such as planning, scheduling, and resource allocation, which can be applied to various industries and project types.

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Business Analyst

Business Analysts identify and analyze business needs and develop solutions to improve efficiency and effectiveness. Manufacturing Systems I may provide you with some analytical skills and a basic understanding of business processes, which can be useful in business analysis.

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Management Consultant

Management Consultants advise businesses on how to improve their performance. Manufacturing Systems I may provide you with some knowledge of business operations and analytical skills, which can be helpful in management consulting.

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Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts provide financial advice to individuals and organizations. Manufacturing Systems I may provide you with some basic knowledge of statistics and probability, which can be helpful in financial analysis.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to help businesses make informed decisions. Manufacturing Systems I may provide you with some basic skills in data analysis and probability, which can be helpful in data analytics.

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