Estimated Time of Completion

WHAT THIS IS

Estimated Time of Completion (ETC) predicts when the current production batch is expected to finish.

If a shift schedule has been configured, Factbird takes planned production hours into account when calculating the estimate. Time outside scheduled production shifts is excluded, resulting in a more realistic completion estimate.

Without a shift schedule, the estimate assumes production continues without interruption.

WHY IT MATTERS

Using shift schedules for Estimated Time of Completion helps produce more accurate production forecasts.

This allows production teams to:

• Estimate when the current batch will finish.
• Account for planned downtime between shifts.
• Improve production planning.
• Better coordinate operators, downstream processes, and product changeovers.

WHEN YOU WOULD USE THIS

Use this when:

• Monitoring the progress of an active batch.
• Estimating when production will finish.
• Planning production across multiple shifts.
• Reviewing production schedules.

HOW IT WORKS

Factbird continuously estimates the remaining production time based on the current production rate.

If a shift schedule exists:

• Production time is counted only during scheduled shifts.
• Time outside planned production shifts is excluded from the calculation.
• The estimated completion time automatically extends across multiple shifts when necessary.

If no shift schedule exists:

• The estimate assumes production continues continuously without scheduled breaks.

As production progresses or the production rate changes, the Estimated Time of Completion is updated automatically. 

Note: By default this is switched off

KEY TERMS / COMPONENTS

Estimated Time of Completion (ETC)

• The predicted date and time when the current production batch is expected to finish.

Shift Schedule

• A configured production calendar that defines planned production periods.

Remaining Production Time

• The amount of production time still required to complete the current batch.

Planned Production Time

• The scheduled periods during which production is expected to run.

COMMON MISUNDERSTANDINGS

• Estimated Time of Completion is an estimate, not a guaranteed completion time.
• When a shift schedule is configured, the calculation includes only planned production hours. Time outside scheduled shifts is excluded.
• If no shift schedule is configured, the estimate assumes production continues without scheduled interruptions.
• The estimate updates automatically as production progresses and operating conditions change.

RELATED ARTICLES

• Task hub: Shift Scheduling