The term i have research is quick Response Manufacturing (QRM) is a companywide strategy that relentlessly reduces internal and external lead times to boost responsiveness and cut hidden costs (Suri, 1998/2010). By organizing work into cross-functional QRM cells and measuring Manufacturing Critical-path Time (MCT), firms shift from cost/utilization metrics to time-based competitioncrucial for high-mix, low-volume markets in the 21st century (Suri, 1998/2010; UW-Madison QRM Center, n.d.). Empirical studies report substantial cycle-time reductions (often around 50%), which translate into faster delivery, lower WIP, improved cash flow, and greater agility when demand shiftscore drivers of competitiveness today (Adoption & Impact of QRM, 2025). QRM's POLCA production-control system (a hybrid push-pull method) limits congestion between cells, stabilizing flow without the rigidity of classic kanbana better fit for variability and customization that dominate modern operations (Sustainability, 2021; UW-Madison, 2023). In short, by treating time as the primary strategic variable, QRM equips operations to meet shorter product lifecycles and volatile customer expectationswinning on speed, flexibility, and cost simultaneously (Suri, 1998/2010).

Works Cited Adoption and Impact of Quick Response Manufacturing Across Industries. Journal of Industrial Engineering and Management Systems, 2025. Suri, R. Quick Response Manufacturing: A Companywide Approach to Reducing Lead Times. Productivity Press/Taylor & Francis, 1998/2010. UW-Madison Center for Quick Response Manufacturing. "Ten Things You Should Know About QRM." Sustainability. "Implementation of POLCA Integrated QRM Framework for Optimized Flow," 2021. UW-Madison Center for Quick Response Manufacturing (About page).