Most organizations have only a few binding resource constraints. The major binding
constraint is defined as the drummer. Assume, for example, that there is only one
internal binding constraint. By default, this constraint becomes the drummer. The drummer
constraint’s production rate sets the production rate for the entire plant. Downstream
processes fed by the drummer constraint are naturally forced to follow its rate
of production. Scheduling for downstream processes is easy. Once a part is finished at
the drummer process, the next process begins its operation. Similarly, each subsequent operation begins when the prior operation is finished. Upstream processes that feed the
drummer constraint are scheduled to produce at the same rate as the drummer constraint.
Scheduling at the drummer rate prevents the production of excessive upstream
work-in-process inventories