Operations Management-methods of production Flashcards
Define job production-give examples
Firms producing items that meet specific requirements of the customer-one off, unique items…
Eg.wedding dress maker, architect
What some advantages of job production?
Meets customer needs High quality Motivational Flexible to change Adds value Little stock tied up
What some disadvantages of job production?
No economies of scale Higher costs of production Skilled labour required Costing is difficult Slower process
Define batch production-give examples
Many similar items produced together(but can have variations)
Eg.jumpers, bread…
What some advantages of batch production?
Reduces unit costs Addresses specific customer needs Faster than job Some economies of scale Some flexibility Specialist machinery skills-increases output/productivity
What some disadvantages of batch production?
Time lost switching between batches-machines reset Stock of raw materials needed Can be demotivating Money tied up in storage Less variation than job
Define flow/mass production-give examples
Continuous movement of items through the production process
Eg.car manufacturing
What some advantages of flow/mass production?
Continuous
Economies of scale-lower cost per annum of production
Standardised products
Division of labour and specialisation-allocation of labour into specific tasks to increase productivity
What some disadvantages of flow/mass production?
Not flexible Demotivating High set up costs Planning Breakdowns stop all production Stock holding Suppliers lead time
Define cell production
Workers organised into multi-skilled teams-each teams responsible for a particular part of the process
What some advantages of cell production?
Job rotation Improves teamwork/commitment Identifies recruitment/training needs Multi skilled workers Improved communication+quality Motivating
What some disadvantages of cell production?
Machinery not used intensively
Smaller scale lines might not yield enough savings to make it economically viable
Might not be efficient enough
Specific training/recruitment to the production type
What are factors influencing the selection of production methods used?
Nature of product Cost of machinery/technology Workforce Customers Competition in market Views of stakeholders Objectives Finance
Define division of labour
Allocation of labour into specific tasks-to increase productivity
What are some benefits of division of labour?
Tasks performed quicker
Output increases-decreased unit costs
Increases profit margin
