ABSTRACT

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides an understanding of Paired-cell Overlapping Loops of Cards with Authorization (POLCA). It explains how the system works and, the key rules that determine the sequence in which jobs will be tackled and how jobs and cards flow through the loops. The book presents an inspiring case study of a company that designed and launched its POLCA system. It also provides advice on how to sustain POLCA and ensure that it continues to operate successfully in the long run. The book demonstrates that POLCA is not just a theoretical concept; it has been implemented in factories around the world with impressive results. It illustrates in practice through case studies from various industries. Instead of implementing a centralized planning system that attempts to optimize the whole operation, POLCA uses a simpler central system and pushes real-time decision-making to the cells and teams.