Kitting versus line stocking: A conceptual framework and a descriptive model

Abstract

In this paper, based on a number of site visits we performed, we present certain fundamental differences between kitting and line stocking (i.e., no kitting), and we develop definitions which are intended to serve as a framework to study most kitting operations. We also develop a descriptive model which can be used to quantify the trade-offs in material handling, space requirements, and work-in-process between kitting and line stocking at an early decision stage. We present a numerical example to demonstrate the model and some of the insight we gained. Lastly, we discuss new research directions to further explore kitting and its impact on the shop floor.