1.2.2 division of labour

Question 1

Division of labour

Answer 1

The breaking down of production processes into small parts with each worker allocated to a certain task

Question 2

Specialisation

Answer 2

Where one person/country concentrates upon one job/product

Question 3

Advantages of division of labour to workers

Answer 3

• Allows workers to become more skilled in a specific area/task
• Being more skilled could lead to higher wages
• May enjoy more job satisfaction

Question 4

Disadvantages of division of labour to workers

Answer 4

• May become bored due to constant repetition
• Boredom can lead to job dissatisfaction and could affect motivation
• Being too specialised could lead to unemployment/not being able to find a job as they can only do a specific task

Question 5

Advantages of division of labour to businesses

Answer 5

• Improved efficiency
• Greater use of specialist tools
• Reduced production time
• Organisation of production is easier as there is a structured system

Question 6

Disadvantages of division of labour to businesses

Answer 6

• Poor quality work due to worker dissatisfaction and poor motivation
• Production chain is dependent on linkage of previous stage
• Specialisation can lead to a loss of flexibility in the workplace