4. Aggregate planning (AP) and master production scheduling (MPS) are two important functions in Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP II). Proper interfaces between the two functions will greatly enhance the effectiveness of the whole manufacturing planning and control (MPC) system. b. Main objective of aggregate planning frequently is to minimize total cost over the planning horizon. Based on Table 3.3 and 3.4 below, use chase strategy by completing Table 3.5. Table 3.3 Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total Forecast 100 150 250 400 250 50 90 160 260 390 240 60 2400 Table 3.4 Costs Output Regular time -Hiring -Firing Inventory Back orders RM500.00 per car RM200.00 per worker RM100.00 per worker RM10.00 per car per period on average inventory RM20.00 per car per period Note: There are 20 workers and each can produce 10 cars per period, start with zero inventories on hand in the first period, and the planned ending inventory is zero. Table 3.5 Month Jan Feb Mar Chase Strategy with hiring and firing Apr May Jun Jul Aug 400 250 50 90 160 Oct Nov Dec Total Sep 260 Forecast 100 150 250 390 240 60 2400 Output Regular Overtime Subcontract Output-Forecast Inventory Beginning Ending Average Backlog Costs Regular Overtime Subcontract Hire/Layoff Inventory Backorders Total