Optimize your production by sequencing manufacturing operations in Katana. Use routings to define whether tasks are completed one after another (consecutively) or at the same time (in parallel). This structure helps you better plan task flows, resource allocation, and cost calculations.
What are operation routings?
Production operations often need to follow a specific order or be grouped for simultaneous execution.
You can organize them in three ways:
Consecutive operations: Tasks happen one after another (e.g. Cut → Weld → Assemble).
Parallel operations: Tasks occur at the same time (e.g. Cut legs and Cut tabletop simultaneously).
Mixed workflows: Combine both styles for maximum flexibility.
Understanding operation sequences
Katana uses a Step # column to display operation order when "Operations are in sequence" is enabled.
All operations with the same step number will be performed in parallel.
Operations with different step numbers will be performed in sequence.
How to enable and manage operation routings
Go to the Items screen.
Select a product and open the Production operations tab (Make must be enabled).
Toggle "Operations are in sequence" ON.
The operations table will now display a Step # column.
Reordering operation steps
You can rearrange operations using drag-and-drop:
To set operations in sequence: Drop a step between two rows. It gets a unique step number.
To group operations in parallel: Drop one operation on top of another. Both will share the same step number and be executed together.
Understanding time values
When routings are enabled, Katana displays two time estimates:
Type | Description |
Production time | Total time to complete all steps, including sequential delays. For parallel groups, only the longest operation in the group counts. |
Total time for cost calculation | The sum of all operation durations, used to calculate production cost. |
Example: Table assembly workflow
Imagine you’re building a wooden table. Here's a routing example that includes both parallel and sequential operations:
Steps:
Parallel:
Cut table legs
Cut tabletop
Inspection: Check the quality of parts.
Assembly: Combine parts into a finished table.
Visualization:
Cutting is done in parallel on two workstations.
Inspection must happen after both cuts are complete.
Final assembly can only begin after inspection passes.
This setup ensures quality control without delaying independent tasks.
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