Work in progress (WIP) includes jobs started but not yet finished, and visibility helps teams spot congestion.
What matters most
Track each job's stage, responsible station, estimated completion and material status. Avoid excessive status categories: operators need a lightweight, reliable update process.
Evaluation checklist
- Work-order stages — verify that the workflow matches your real operating process.
- operator updates — verify that the workflow matches your real operating process.
- aging reports — verify that the workflow matches your real operating process.
- material availability — verify that the workflow matches your real operating process.
Practical example
A product can move from cutting to welding, finishing and final inspection; timestamps reveal queue delays.
Before you choose a tool
A WIP dashboard is only as accurate as its shop-floor updates. Compare several solutions using the same sample workflow, ask vendors for documented answers, and check whether staff can complete their daily tasks without unnecessary steps.
Questions to ask
What should we test first?
Test one everyday workflow from start to finish with realistic data. Record setup time, mistakes, and where information must be entered twice.
How do we compare software fairly?
Use one requirement checklist, a common budget horizon, and clearly documented assumptions. Confirm current features, pricing, and support arrangements using official vendor information.
Editorial note: This demonstration guide is an illustrative starting point, not a verified commercial recommendation. It must be researched and reviewed before publication.
