Daily Production Report Template

The daily production report template is divided into four key sections. The **Production Output Summary** records planned vs. actual quantities for each product or order produced during the shift, with automatic variance calculations. The **Downtime Log** captures every production stoppage with start time, end time, duration, affected equipment, and categorized reason code (breakdown, changeover, material shortage, quality hold, etc.). The **Quality Summary** records defects, scrap, and rework quantities with defect type categorization, enabling Pareto analysis over time. The **Shift Notes** section provides space for free-form commentary on unusual events, safety observations, staffing changes, and items requiring follow-up. A header section captures the date, shift, supervisor name, and production line. Automatic KPI calculations include schedule adherence percentage, OEE components (availability, performance, quality), and yield rate.

Before the shift begins, enter the planned production quantities from the weekly schedule. During the shift, operators or supervisors update actual quantities at regular intervals — hourly updates are ideal for real-time course correction, but at minimum update at the end of the shift. Log every downtime event as it occurs, including the reason code from the standardized list. Record quality issues in real time rather than relying on end-of-shift memory. At shift end, complete the shift notes section with any relevant observations and outstanding issues for the next shift. Calculate the summary KPIs. Submit the report to the production manager and planning team before the start of the next business day. During the weekly production meeting, review the week's daily reports to identify patterns — recurring downtime causes, chronic schedule variances, and quality trends that warrant improvement action. Use LinePlanner alongside this template to track actual vs. planned in real time, reducing the manual effort of end-of-shift reporting.

For maximum adoption, make the template easy and fast to complete — supervisors are busy and will not fill in complex forms. Limit downtime reason codes to 15–25 well-defined categories to balance detail with usability. Provide a laminated quick-reference card at each workstation listing the reason codes. Consider digital entry via tablets at the production line to eliminate paper-to-spreadsheet transcription. Automate KPI calculations so supervisors enter raw data and formulas produce the metrics. Share reports visually — post a summary on the production floor's visual management board so operators see how their shift performed. Track metrics over time with trend charts, not just daily snapshots. Celebrate improvements when the data shows positive trends. When the data reveals problems, respond with improvement actions (kaizen events, maintenance interventions) rather than blame — this builds trust in the reporting system and ensures honest data.