MRF automatically schedules all planned work order release and due dates.

MRP automatically calculates the planned order release date from the order due date. To determine the release date, QAD Enterprise Applications uses the manufacturing lead time to offset the number of shop days required before the due date. The shop calendar is used to define the work week and identifies both shop and nonwork days. This technique is a backward scheduling method. From a planning perspective, it is critical to ensure that the lead times are accurate and that the planning horizon is sufficient in length to cover the longest lead time item.

An important element of backward scheduling is the standard order quantity specified in the Item Planning Data. This value is used during the lead time roll-up process. Thus the manufacturing lead time (displayed in Item Planning Maintenance) is based on the time required to make the standard order quantity.