Conclusions

Just In Time (JIT) is made up of many building blocks and it seems to author that one of the most important is integrated information processing throughout the logistic chain. In the JIT concept, this is removed in favour of decentralised decision making with the conscious involvement of the ordinary person. From a business point of view that already has a considerable effect, as it means products are held in stock at a lower level of value added; but from a JIT point of view, that is not the right concept - it must be a temporary phenomenon. JIT implies changes in management style, which is certainly different in Japanese companies from European or US companies. Top management often accepts the JIT concept very quickly because published case studies show how advantageous the system is and because it makes competitive sense: As Herr Stihl said several times, it is a necessity.