Looking deeper into the cost calculation of injection molded parts, time will be the dominant factor of influence in almost all cases. Time from concept to the serial production, time for test runs, time for mold corrections and especially the cycle time are usually driving the price for a plastic part. Since simulation models the real world, time is also a critical value in the virtual molding process. There are several simulation models depending on time like viscoelastic material behavior, crystallization with different cool rates or viscosity relaxation effects. To take all of these complex interactions into account in the calculation a correct description of the timeline is mandatory. If one wants to calculate the cycle time, filling the cavity and cooling the polymer are obviously the most important phases. Nevertheless the cycle consists out of several other phases. The time when the mold stands open, the ejection phase or a service time can have a significant influence. These times are driving the cycle time directly but they also have an indirect influence on the temperature distribution in the mold. Leaving the mold open for a longer time will lead to a different mold temperature and will therefore have an influence on the cooling time or the part quality. The presentation will focus on the influence of different phases on the injection molding cycle. What kind of influence do mold open times have on the part quality and how can the cycle time be calculated? One of the central questions discussed in the presentation will be how one can change the cycle time. How big is the influence of conformal cooling or special mold materials on the cooling time? Understanding the process and the complex correlations can be a solid ground for new developed products or the optimization of running productions.