Topic 4: Operations - 4.1 Production Processes

Question 1

Production processes:

Answer 1

The three methods of production - job, batch and flow.

Question 2

Job production:

Answer 2

The process of production where products are made individually.

Question 3

Batch production:

Answer 3

The process of production where one type of product is made and then production is switched to make a different product.

Question 4

Flow production:

Answer 4

The production of one product that takes place continuously using a production/assembly line. This is something called mass production.

Question 5

Automation:

Answer 5

A production process involving machinery that is not controlled by a person, but usually controlled by a computer.

Question 6

Robotics:

Answer 6

The use of robots in the process of production.

Question 7

List three main methods of production:

Answer 7

• Job production.
• Flow production.
• Batch production.

Question 8

State three advantages of job production:

Answer 8

1. High quality products.
2. Products can be tailored to meet individual customer needs.
3. Workers often more satisfied from working on something until it is finished.

Question 9

State three advantages of job production:

Answer 9

1. High quality products.
2. Products can be tailored to meet individual customer needs.
3. Workers often more satisfied from working on something until it is finished.

Question 10

State three disadvantages of job production:

Answer 10

1. High costs of production.
2. Skilled labour required.
3. High labour costs.

Question 11

State three advantages of batch production:

Answer 11

1. The needs of different customers can be met by making different batches.
2. Batches made to specific orders may reduce costs because finished goods do not need to be stored.
3. Automation may be possible, reducing costs.

Question 12

State four disadvantages of batch production:

Answer 12

1. Time taken to switch from one batch to another.
2. May need to keep stocks of materials and components - cash flow issues and storage costs.
3. Usually less choice of products than job production.
4. Tasks may be repetitive and boring for the workers.

Question 13

State three advantages of flow production:

Answer 13

1. Large amounts can be made.
2. Low units costs of production (due to economies of scale).
3. Machinery can be used, increasing productivity.

Question 14

State four disadvantages of flow production:

Answer 14

1. Mass produced goods may not not be of good quality (bit not always).
2. Very expensive to set up production line.
3. Stops on the line can shut down the whole of production.
4. Jobs on a production line can be repetitive and boring.

Question 15

State four disadvantages of flow production:

Answer 15

1. Mass produced goods may not not be of good quality (bit not always).
2. Very expensive to set up production line.
3. Stops on the line can shut down the whole of production.
4. Jobs on a production line can be repetitive and boring.