Division of Labour and Specialisation

Question 1

What is the division of labour

Answer 1

When production is broken down into smaller tasks
it can raise an output per person as people become proficient per person through constantly repeating a task. - also called learning by doing

Question 2

2 real world examples of division of labour

Answer 2

Vehicle manufacturing: In automobile manufacturing, the division of labour is highly evident. Each worker on an assembly line has a specialized task, such as installing a specific component (e.g., engines, tires, seats) or performing a particular operation (e.g., welding, painting).
Healthcare: Within the healthcare industry, doctors specialize in specific fields such as surgery, pediatrics, cardiology, or radiology. This specialization allows healthcare providers to develop expertise in their chosen area, leading to better patient care and more efficient diagnosis and treatment.

Question 3

Advantages of division of labour

Answer 3

Efficiency - when people specialise in specific tasks they become skilled and proficient in specific tasks, which leads to increased efficiency.
Economies of scale - when products are produced by people who are efficient then they are produced at a faster rate which means there production costs decrease. This can lead to higher profitability and affordability for customers

Question 4

Disadvantages of division of labour

Answer 4

Repetitive work -> lower productivity
Workers may take less pride and quality may suffer.
Repetitive strain injuries
lack of variety for customers.

Question 5

Learning by doing

Answer 5

“Learning by doing” refers to the process of acquiring knowledge, skills, and expertise through direct hands-on experience or practice in a particular activity or industry.

Question 6

What is specialisation

Answer 6

Specialisation is being proficient in specific tasks so that you are worth more.
Advantages: Labour productivity, higher profits, lower prices, economic growth.