Purpose of Flow Schedule
A flow schedule is a statement of planned output for a production line for a defined period of time. It consists of a sequenced collection of flow scheduled orders, each of which is represented by a schedule detail record in the database. Based on your business methods, a flow scheduled order can include a reference to a work order that can be processed using standard tools in the Work Orders module.
Parts are processed in the natural flow of tasks required to create the finished product. Items are not made in batches in separate functional departments, and the production of subassemblies is incorporated into the production of the final part. This eliminates the need to prepare schedules for any items other than the finished parts.
Because a flow schedule is used for continuous process manufacturing, components are issued to production by backflushing. This method deducts the required quantities from inventory when order quantities are reported as complete.