2.2a Manufacturing Industry Flashcards
Bought in components
- All components parts are readily available to
manufacturers in standard stock forms. - Specialist manufacturers are set up to make components
in set sizes etc. making this a more cost-effective system.
Standardised part assembly
- For some products, parts of the product are made and
assembled away from the main production line and
brought in when needed. - This is an economic and efficient system where specialist
manufacturing processes are needed for the part.
Subcontracting
- Manufacturers can sub-contract part of an order out to a
third party. This allows manufacturers to meet demand
particularly when high volumes are needed. - Manufacturers have to be confident that any
subcontractors or third parties will meet required quality
standards.
Staffing needs
- Training of staff is critical in any manufacturing system.
Safe and correct use of machinery is paramount in any
workplace. - The well-being of staff is the responsibility of an employer
but all staff have to abide by the rules and accept training
when it is necessary.
Economic decisions/allocation of costs
Manufacturing costs vary depending on where the
product is being made. Costs can be cut by reworking or
simplifying a design.
One-off / Unit prototyping
- One-off products are designed and made for an
individual customer for a specific location or purpose.
One-off products are made to a precise set of
measurements/dimensions and in the customer’s choice
of materials. - Bespoke clothing falls into this category as well as
customised sports equipment for elite athletes. - Performance models fall into the category of one-off
products as they are the first accurate model of a new
product – not made on a production line.
Batch/modular
- Batch production refers to a set number of identical
products to be manufactured over a given period of time.
Quantities can vary from a few items to a few thousand. - Seasonal products are often produced in batches as there
is no long-term demand.
Mass/high volume
- Mass production is the largest scale of production for
products that are in constant demand over extended
periods of time. Designs or styles rarely change. Small
component parts are often made on a mass scale, for
example paper cups for vending machines or plain white
ankle socks for children. - Continuous production refers to a manufacturing
system that runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In some
industries it would be too costly to stop manufacture for
example in the steel industry but in the clothing industry,
24-hour production can bring costs down as more
products are made.
Just in time
This is a stock control system of manufacturing where
materials and components are brought into the
production line at the point or time of need. An efficient
system that reduces overall running costs.
Product support
Product support is a service provided to consumers
following the purchase of a new product. This service
provides help when setting up or installing a new product
particularly where technology is involved.
* Additional on-going product support plans can be
purchased so that the consumer has on-going technical
support if needed.
Customer services/consumer groups
Customer service deals with any queries regarding the
purchase or issues arising following the purchase or use
of a product.
* Good customer service is essential in maintaining or
improving the reputation of a company and will ensure
customers will stay loyal to a brand.
* Consumer groups are interested parties who are
consulted by manufacturers to test new products and
provide feedback.
Sustainability
- Sustainability in industry refers to: choice of materials
and components; the life cycle of the products including
impact on disposal; use of greener energy sources and
processes; recyclability of products; life expectancy of
products; transport. - It is the responsibility of designers and manufacturers to
investigate ways of reducing a product’s carbon footprint
even before it has been manufactured.
Legislation/regulations
- Legislation and regulations are in place to ensure that all
products are safe to use for the intended users. Products
must be fit for purpose and free of defects before being
considered fit for sale.
