Descriptions and Definitions of Quality Terms, Tools and Techniques

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Last In, First Out (LIFO)

If you are putting items in a pile and then removing them as needed, just like a stack of plates, then this is a LIFO sequence. If the sequence does not matter then this method is adequate and simplifies storage. If items at the bottom of the pile may suffer from compression damage then a method for handling this problem must be used, for example with periodic clean-downs.

This method is also suitable when complete batches are produced and then separately used, as there is no time for aging.

Because of the pattern of usage, the structure for using LIFO is sometimes called a stack. The item arrives at the head of the queue and is gradually pushed down by new arrivals. It is used when newer arrivals have first been used.

In computers, the 'stack' uses a LIFO structure and is used for reverse polish calculations and procedural nesting information.

LIFO is also sometimes used when job redundancies are needed in order to keep more experienced staff.

An amusing variant on LIFO is 'FISH', which stands for First In, Still Here!

See also:

First In, First Out (FIFO)

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