Comprehensive Guide to Learning Production Planning and Control

Production planning and control (PPC) are critical components of any successful business, particularly those involved in manufacturing and supply chain management. Whether you are a student, a professional, or someone with a keen interest in operations and logistics, there are numerous resources available to help you learn and master PPC. This guide will explore various tools, including online courses, books, academic journals, and industry certifications, to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of this essential field.

Online Courses

The internet offers a wealth of opportunities to learn about production planning and control. Some of the top platforms include:

Coursera: Offers courses from prestigious universities like the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Illinois, covering supply chain management and production planning. edX: Provides courses related to operations management, including production planning and control, from institutions such as MIT and Harvard. LinkedIn Learning: Features a range of courses on topics including production planning, inventory management, and operations management.

Books

For those who prefer a more traditional learning method, there are numerous textbooks and specialized books available:

Production Planning and Control: A Logistics Approach: A comprehensive textbook that covers production planning and control in detail. Introduction to Operations Research and Production Management: Focuses on analytical methods used in production and operations management. Production Systems: Principles of Production Planning and Control: Provides insights into production systems and the principles of production planning.

Academic Journals

For those interested in the latest research and developments in production planning and control, academic journals are invaluable:

Journal of Operations Management: Offers research articles on production planning and control. International Journal of Production Research: Publishes studies on various aspects of production and operations management.

Professional Organizations

Joining professional organizations can provide access to resources, networking opportunities, and certifications. Two notable organizations are:

Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM): The former APICS organization, it offers certifications, resources, and networking opportunities focused on supply chain and operations management. INFORMS (Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences): Provides resources, publications, and networking opportunities.

YouTube Channels and Podcasts

YouTube and podcasts offer audio-visual content that can be accessed on-the-go. Some channels to check out include:

Supply Chain Canada: Offers insights and discussions on supply chain and logistics. The Lean Startup Collective: Focuses on lean manufacturing and business practices.

Exploring the SAP PP Module

To gain a comprehensive understanding of production planning and order management, it is highly recommended to explore the SAP Production Planning (PP) module. This module covers the entire order management process from start to finish, providing practical insights into the different functions of production planning and control.

Additional Resources

Finding additional resources is as simple as conducting a good search. For instance, the book Planning Production Inventories And Work Force can be a valuable resource. Additionally, programs like Integrated Innovation at Carnegie Mellon University offer specialized training in these areas.

For those looking to find alternative career paths, such as transitioning from an OR Nurse, finding an entry-level production management job with a large manufacturing corporation could be a good starting point. Companies often support their employees' educational advancement, including MBA studies, and this experience can also provide valuable networking opportunities that are essential for entrepreneurship.