Definition
Load balancing is the scheduling discipline of distributing operations across capable alternate resources so total throughput is maximized and no single resource is left chronically overloaded while peers sit idle. In a high-mix shop with multiple machines capable of the same operation, load balancing routinely uncovers 20–40% of "missing" capacity that was always present but never routed to.
Why it matters
Most ERPs route every operation to its named primary resource, regardless of current load. The result is a primary machine at 110% and an equally capable secondary at 50%. The capacity exists; the routing logic does not see it. Load balancing built into the scheduler closes this gap automatically.
Common failure mode
The primary mill is booked through Friday. The secondary mill — same envelope, same capability — runs at half load all week because the routing default sends every order to the primary. The shop quotes a 10-day lead time when the work could ship in 5.
How Skody approaches it
Skody evaluates qualified alternates as part of every placement decision and routes operations to the lowest-cost feasible resource — accounting for setup, queue, and downstream impact, not just the next free slot.
Related terms
Questions
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