Learn how to enable and work with sequential or parallel production tasks using routed operations in Katana’s Shop Floor App.
What are routed operation sequences?
Some manufacturing workflows require specific steps to be completed in order — either consecutively (one after another) or in parallel (simultaneously). Katana supports both types through operation routing, which controls how tasks are displayed and executed in the Shop Floor App.
To configure routing:
Go to a product’s Product Card > Operations tab to set up routed operations.
You can also view and adjust operation routing in individual manufacturing orders (MOs).
Enabling routed sequences in the Shop Floor App
Once you’ve defined the routing for your operations, you can enforce task order in the Shop Floor App by enabling the Operations are in sequence toggle.
With this enabled:
Operators will only see active tasks — those that are currently available based on routing.
Subsequent tasks appear only after preceding tasks are completed (unless they’re parallel).
This helps operators stay focused and minimizes the risk of skipping steps in complex workflows.
How tasks appear in the app
Let’s look at an example:
An MO has three operations:
2 types of Cutting – set to run in parallel.
Inspection – set to start after both Cuttings are finished.
In the Shop Floor App:
Operators will initially see only the two Cutting tasks.
Once both are marked as Finished, Inspection becomes visible and can be started.
This ensures that all operations are followed in the correct order, especially when dependencies exist between steps.
Tip for managing task lists
To enhance focus even more, combine routed sequences with other filters like:
Search filters
Resource-based filtering (e.g. by workstation or operator)
This allows operators to see only what’s relevant to them at any given moment.
Summary
Using routed operations with the Shop Floor App helps:
Enforce correct task order
Reduce mistakes from working on tasks too early
Improve production efficiency and visibility
If you haven’t already set up operation routing, head to the Product Card > Operations tab to get started.
Your feedback is invaluable. Let us know your thoughts on this article or anything in Katana you'd like to see improved: [email protected]