pulloperusteiseen

Pulloperusteiseen is a Finnish term that translates to "pull-based" or "based on pull". It is most commonly encountered in the context of production and inventory management systems, particularly in contrast to "push-based" systems. In a pull-based system, production or procurement is triggered by actual customer demand. Instead of manufacturing goods speculatively and pushing them through the supply chain, items are only produced or moved when there is a signal from the next stage in the process that more are needed. This signal can be a customer order, a low inventory level at a retail store, or a request from a downstream production line.

The core principle of pulloperusteiseen is to minimize waste by avoiding overproduction and excess inventory. By responding directly to demand, companies can reduce storage costs, decrease the risk of obsolescence, and improve the flow of materials. This approach is a fundamental element of lean manufacturing methodologies, such as the Toyota Production System, where it is often referred to as "Kanban". In a Kanban system, visual signals or cards are used to communicate demand and authorize the movement of materials, creating a continuous flow.

The opposite of pulloperusteiseen is push-based production, where goods are manufactured or ordered based on forecasts and then pushed down the supply chain, regardless of immediate demand. While push systems can be effective in certain high-volume, stable demand environments, they are more susceptible to imbalances in the supply chain and can lead to significant inventory buildup if forecasts are inaccurate. Pulloperusteiseen aims for a more responsive and efficient supply chain by aligning production directly with real-time consumption.