Sequencing Algorithms in APS: How They Work and Where AI Comes In

With the advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the use of new algorithms for production sequencing is gaining increasing traction. But how do the decisions behind these algorithms work? Whether in optimization models (such as genetic algorithms or neural networks) or in heuristics with defined steps, the logic behind APS is changing—and rapidly.

At NEO Summit 2024, we hosted the roundtable mes “AI: Hype or Reality?” , where our COO, Victor Todeschini, and Lucas Lauck, leader of NEO Labs, discussed with clients the real impacts of AI on the day-to-day operations of PPC .

At the NEO Summit 2025, the message was clear: AI is not hype, it's reality. The question now is different — how do we avoid the pitfalls of fads and apply this technology the right way?

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What are optimization algorithms and heuristics?

The standard concept of production sequencing is based on heuristics, which have predefined decisions to be made. A simple way to understand this is that, regardless of how many times we execute the heuristic, we will always get the mesresult, because it performs the messtep-by-step process for decision-making.

Optimization algorithms, on the other hand, come into play when the goal is not simply to follow a fixed step , but rather to find the best possible solution within a set of constraints and variables. Unlike heuristics, which are fast and deterministic , optimization algorithms explore multiple possibilities , often using strategies such as local search, genetic algorithms, or mathematical programming to minimize or maximize an objective function —such as total production time, delay, or setup time.

Opcenter APS has always been based on the concept of classic heuristics , such as Shortest Processing Time Sequencing , Earliest Delivery Date , Similar Setup , among others. These are simple rules, but they work well for a wide range of scenarios.

However, in 2023, NEO launched its own turbocharged heuristic , called n-SBR (NEO Smart Balancing Rule). The n-SBR combines multiple criteria simultaneously — such as dates, priorities, setups, bottlenecks, and historical behavior — delivering results that are more aligned with factory realities, with logic customized to the challenges of Brazilian industry.

But... what if this heuristic could learn over time ? What if it adapted itself to different contexts, optimizing decisions based on real data and not just fixed rules?

That's exactly what we're starting to explore: how to turbocharge n-SBR with Artificial Intelligence .

Let's delve into this intersection — where structured logic meets dynamic learning — and discover what happens when we combine the best of both worlds.

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AI, yes. But in the right way.

At NEO, AI isn't meant to replace heuristics—it's meant to enhance them . Our focus is on creating a system where AI:

• Learn from historical data to suggest adjustments to the n-SBR logic.
  
  
• It simulates scenarios and assesses impacts before execution.
  
  
• Recommends alternative sequencing based on hidden patterns.
  
  
• It monitors real results and provides feedback to the decision-making process.
  
  

This is not the distant future. We are already developing this ecosystem, combining the robustness of heuristics with the adaptability of AI.

AI is part of the solution. But it should never be an indecipherable black box .
We continue to believe in clear logic, auditable decisions, and total control by the production team. Therefore, mes with AI involved, we maintain:

• Transparency in the rules
  
  
• Speed ​​in decision-making
  
  
• Flexibility to customize and simulate
  
  

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Conclusion: Technology at the service of industry

The secret to success in APS lies in combining the best of heuristics—simplicity, speed, and efficiency—with the power of AI applied in the right places. At NEO, our commitment is to solutions that truly work for the industry, avoiding fads and focusing on concrete results.

"Sequencing production in the short, medium, and long term — with ease, agility, speed, and accuracy — is among the advantages that Opcenter APS provides us today."

— Anderson Petter, PPC Coordinator at America Tampas

If you also want to transform the planning and sequencing of your production, count on those who combine cutting-edge technology with shop floor knowledge to truly boost your business.

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