PullModellen

PullModellen, or the pull model, is a management and operations approach in which production and replenishment are triggered by actual customer demand rather than by forecasted requirements. It is a core concept in lean manufacturing and just-in-time production, emphasizing responsiveness and the reduction of waste.

In a pull system, downstream consumption signals initiate upstream activity. Signals can be physical, such as Kanban cards, or electronic data indicating inventory levels or consumption rates. The system relies on short lead times, frequent replenishment, and small batch sizes, with a decoupling point between stages where work is pulled by demand rather than pushed by schedule.

Compared with push models, which schedule production based on forecasts, pull models strive to minimize inventory and work-in-process, reduce overproduction, and improve flow. Success depends on reliable processes, predictable lead times, and close coordination across suppliers and internal functions. When demand is highly variable or lead times are long, pull systems may face stockouts or delays unless complemented by flexible capacity and clear signaling.

Applications of PullModellen span manufacturing, distribution, and retail, where the aim is to align production closely with actual demand. It is also referenced in information systems and software development under the broader concept of demand-driven data or feature delivery, where work is initiated by user requests rather than anticipated plans. Overall, the pull model seeks to create a responsive, waste-minimizing value chain through demand-driven signaling.