Document Type

Article

Author ORCID Identifier

Rick Hardcopf https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4075-7679

Vijay Kannan https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2725-5268

Journal/Book Title

Decision Sciences Journal of Innovative Education

Publisher

Wiley-Blackwell Publishing, Inc.

First Page

1

Journal Article Version

Accepted Manuscript

Last Page

17

Publication Date

10-3-2024

Abstract

Lean production (“Lean”) is a topic frequently taught in undergraduate and graduate operations/supply chain management courses. Lean's “pull system” is a common component of the instruction, and several useful simulations have been developed that allow students to experience a pull system firsthand. While existing simulations focus on the mechanics of a pull system, the Brawny Brackets simulation focuses on improving “flow”—that is, framing a pull system in the context of layout design and batch sizing, and the waste associated with jumbled flow patterns. The robust and flexible simulation allows instructors to expand or contract the topics taught to match the course objectives and teaching time available.

Brawny Brackets is a useful tool to help students learn how to improve operational efficiency and effectiveness. As this article demonstrates, the Brawny Brackets simulation can enhance student learning in operations and supply chain management courses in both undergraduate and graduate courses.

Comments

This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: Hardcopf, R., Kannan, V. & Ebbeler, J. (2024) Brawny Brackets: Connecting the dots from layout design to pull flow. Decision Sciences Journal of Innovative Education, 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1111/dsji.12329, which has been published in final form at https://doi.org/10.1111/dsji.12329. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Use of Self-Archived Versions. This article may not be enhanced, enriched or otherwise transformed into a derivative work, without express permission from Wiley or by statutory rights under applicable legislation. Copyright notices must not be removed, obscured or modified. The article must be linked to Wiley’s version of record on Wiley Online Library and any embedding, framing or otherwise making available the article or pages thereof by third parties from platforms, services and websites other than Wiley Online Library must be prohibited.

Available for download on Saturday, October 03, 2026

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