Application of the DBR Approach to a Multi-project Manufacturing Context

In certain project-based contexts, the most effective managerial approach may be different from a “pure” Project Management approach. Thus, under certain circumstances, a Production Management approach may be more suitable. This research offers some important insights into the problem of addressing contexts in which both, Project and Production Management characteristics, coexist. This paper presents a real-world case study in an industrial company devoted to designing and manufacturing special cutting tools. Depending on the items in the orders, different lead times, resources, and batch sizes occur, leading to different levels of complexity. Production Management approaches are preferred for standard items, whereas complex items are better managed by applying a Project Management approach. In an attempt to maximize effectiveness, the management followed the suggestion to apply the DBR production approach in order to harmonize the capacity of the plant and the requirements of the orders. Thus, this research deals with the implementation of this methodology in the abovementioned environment. The consequences, limitations, and conclusions are discussed, offering insights for further research.