Methods of production

Question 1

Define job production.

Answer 1

Producing custom-made, unique items

Question 2

Define batch production.

Answer 2

Producing groups of identical items in stages.

Question 3

Define mass/flow production.

Answer 3

The production of large amounts of standardized products on an assembly line.

Question 4

Define mass customization.

Answer 4

The production of large quantities of goods that can be adjusted to customer specifications (mass production + elements of customisation).

Question 5

Advantages and disadvantages of job production

Answer 5

Advantages: flexibility and customer choice; high quality; high profit margins; high worker motivation.
Disadvantages: High costs; time-consuming; cash flow problems.

Question 6

Advantages and disadvantages of batch production

Answer 6

Advantages: some flexibility and variety; economies of scale; lower risks.
Disadvantages: less flexibility and variety than job production; higher storage costs; higher production costs than mass production.

Question 7

Advantages and disadvantages of mass/flow production.

Answer 7

Advantages: large-scale production; standardised quality; lower costs of production.
Disadvantages: set-up, running, replacement and storage costs; less flexibility; lower worker motivation.

Question 8

Advantages and disadvantages of mass customisation.

Answer 8

Advantages: Customer satisfaction and loyalty; lower costs; higher prices and profits.
Disadvantages: handling returns; higher costs for customisation; time consuming.