The first event of the Manufacturing Planning and Control Group was held on Wednesday 24 November at Downing College in Cambridge.  The evening was well attended and brought together 29 representatives from 24 companies from across the eastern region and beyond.

The presentations, given by Dr Derek Ford and Tom Ridgman of the IfM, highlighted some of the issues faced by companies using MRP and ERP.  Key issues were also raised by the attendees and included real time orders, infinite/finite scheduling, Forrester Effect, sample tools, unplanned, vendor relationships, planning in different environments and forecasting.

Dates for events in 2005 are 15 February, 21 April and 17 May and details of the topics to be addressed will be circulated shortly.

The Manufacturing Planning and Control Group is one of the IfM's Industry Networks and provides its members with access to the latest research in this area, opportunities to network and share expertise in non-competitive areas, regular contact with the IfM team and opportunities to participate in education and training.

For further information on the Manufacturing Planning and Control group and its event programme, please contact Joanne Griffiths, Manager, Event and Membership Programmes on +44 (0)1223 766141 or by email at jg393@cam.ac.uk