1 A throughput model generator, comprising: a data input section configured to receive tool-specific information about configuration and operational status of a process tool used in a manufacturing environment; a data base operatively connected to said data input section and configured to store a data model of said process tool, said data model representing at least a material flow in said process tool; a model calculator operatively connected to said data base and configured to determine a throughput of said process tool on the basis of said data model and one or more throughput-related parameters; and a user interface operatively connected to said model calculator and configured to select a value of said one or more throughput-related parameters.