Agile manufacturing,

Definition of Agile manufacturing:

1. Manufacturing that is characterized by the ability to respond rapidly to customer needs and market forces, especially through the establishment of flexible relationships with suppliers.

2. Aims at quick turnaround of small batch lots at competitive cost. Agile manufacturers use information technology in machine control and production planning, and to leverage decision making skills and faster flow of information among all departments. See also manufacturing resource planning (MRP II).