How it works
In a stable process, average work in process equals average throughput rate times average flow time. This form solves for average flow time; enter the known quantities in Average work in process, Hourly throughput.
Inputs and units
| Input | Example value | What to enter |
|---|---|---|
| Average work in process | 100 | Formula symbol: wip. Enter a numeric value. Must be greater than zero. |
| Hourly throughput | 20 /h | Formula symbol: rate. Required unit: /h. Must be greater than zero. |
Worked example
Show example inputs and results
This example is generated by the same calculation engine using the starting values in the form. Your own inputs produce your own result.
- Average work in process
- 100
- Hourly throughput
- 20 /h
Complete example results
- Average flow time
- 5 h
Reading the result
The result solves for average flow time from the entered quantities. Check the result unit and the formula conditions before using it.
Questions and answers
Can I use the example values for my own calculation?
The example values illustrate the calculation. Replace every input with your own information, especially dates, rates and the selected operation.
When can I use the average flow time result?
Averages need the same process boundary and time unit. A transient queue spike or a single-day observation does not establish stability.
Why are some results rounded?
Results display up to 8 decimal places. Calculations use the unrounded values; very small values use scientific notation. JavaScript floating-point arithmetic can introduce tiny rounding differences.
Are my inputs sent to a server?
The calculator processes inputs in your browser. Its code does not send your values to a server.
Method sources: web.mit.edu