Fuzzy logic in production sequencing: the case of a cosmetics manufacturer in Brazil

Abstract

This study aims to develop a way to improve the production sequencing practice of a case company that manufactures cosmetics located in Brazil. Production sequencing is an activity that is part of production planning and control. Our goal is to provide ways to reduce sales loss due to product stock-outs through new practices found in the literature. Simultaneously, we aimed at increasing the number of different items without sales loss thereby helping the achievement of sales goals while improving the meeting of overall demand for products. The approach proposed here includes the development of a decision support tool based on fuzzy logic. Such approach proved to be a good alternative to overcome some of the problems encountered in the case company production sequencing activity. Furthermore, the developed decision support system enabled the organisation decision-making to be more agile and dynamic. Additionally, by facilitating the incorporation of environmental complexity, our proposed solution helped harmonise decision-making across different areas of the company.