Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Methods of production

Methods of production refer to the systematic processes and techniques employed to convert raw materials, components, or parts into or services, utilizing labor, machinery, tools, and sometimes chemical or biological transformations. These methods vary based on factors such as product volume, variety, customization needs, and market demand, and are broadly classified into categories like , batch, repetitive, , (including continuous and batch subprocesses), and advanced systems such as additive manufacturing or flexible manufacturing. In manufacturing contexts, involves creating unique, customized items on a one-off basis, often in low volumes with high variety, such as bespoke furniture or specialized construction projects, where a single worker or team handles the entire process to meet specific customer requirements. This method prioritizes flexibility and quality over efficiency but can result in higher costs due to limited . , a middle-ground approach, produces groups or lots of identical items in sequence, allowing for in operations while enabling some across batches, as seen in industries like or assembly. It balances through utilization with the ability to switch between product types, though it may lead to inventory buildup and workflow interruptions between batches. For high-volume, standardized output, mass or flow production employs assembly lines or continuous processes where products move sequentially through dedicated stages with minimal idle time, exemplified by automobile or manufacturing. This method achieves significant , reduces labor skill requirements, and ensures consistent quality, but demands steady demand and uniform materials to avoid bottlenecks. Modern evolutions include , which assembles distinct, identifiable units via bills of materials (e.g., electronics), and process manufacturing, which handles non-discrete transformations like chemicals or food via batch or continuous flows. Emerging techniques such as additive manufacturing (3D printing) build products layer by layer for prototyping or complex geometries, while lean production minimizes waste across methods to enhance efficiency and responsiveness. Overall, selecting an appropriate method optimizes productivity, cost, and adaptability in response to technological advancements and global supply chain dynamics.

Fundamentals

Definition and Scope

Production methods encompass the systematic and organized approaches employed to transform inputs—such as raw materials, labor, and capital—into tangible outputs, primarily , within and related economic activities. This process occurs through structured operations that emphasize in resource utilization, adaptability to varying levels of , and to meet demands. At its core, a production method defines the sequence of activities, tools, and procedures that convert economic inputs into value-added products, ensuring that the output aligns with requirements while minimizing waste. The scope of production methods extends across diverse industries, including (e.g., of components), continuous (e.g., chemical ), and systems that blend elements of both. These methods are distinct from , which focuses on intangible deliverables, by prioritizing the physical handling and alteration of materials to durable . Key elements integral to production methods include to allocate resources, execution of operational tasks to perform the transformation, and ongoing control mechanisms to monitor and adjust processes for consistency and reliability. This broad applicability underscores their role in industrial economies, where they form the backbone of value creation from primary resources to consumer-ready items. Several basic concepts guide the selection and implementation of production methods, including the of the product (e.g., and ), anticipated volume (e.g., low-volume items versus high-volume standardized ones), and resource constraints (e.g., available machinery, skilled , and ). These factors determine the suitability of a method, balancing trade-offs between flexibility for unique products and rigidity for mass output. Over time, production methods have evolved from manual, artisanal techniques to mechanized and automated systems, reflecting advancements in and organizational needs. Economically, production methods significantly influence organizational performance by facilitating through optimized resource use, enhancing via standardized procedures, and boosting through metrics like throughput (the rate of output over time) and cycle time (the duration to complete one unit). Effective methods enable firms to achieve higher output per input, thereby improving competitiveness and profitability in global markets. For instance, shorter cycle times can accelerate market responsiveness, while increased throughput supports without proportional cost escalation. These implications highlight production methods as critical levers for sustainable in manufacturing sectors.

Historical Development

Before the , production methods were predominantly artisanal and craft-based, relying on skilled laborers working in small workshops or homes, often organized through systems in medieval that regulated apprenticeships and ensured in trades like textiles, , and . These , emerging around the , standardized training and limited entry to protect craftsmen from while fostering transferable skills across regions. The late 18th century marked the onset of the in , where and power transformed production from manual labor to machine-driven systems, beginning in the 1770s with textile mills powered by water and early . James Watt's improvements to the in 1769 and 1778 enabled rotary motion for broader industrial applications, powering and increasing output efficiency by relocating production from rural areas to urban centers during the 1770s-1830s. In the United States, Eli Whitney's development of in the late , demonstrated through musket production contracts in 1798, laid the groundwork for standardized by allowing unskilled workers to assemble products quickly and repair them easily, influencing organization. In the 20th century, Henry Ford's introduction of the moving assembly line in 1913 at his Highland Park plant revolutionized mass production, reducing automobile assembly time from over 12 hours to about 90 minutes and enabling high-volume output for consumer markets. Post-World War II advancements in the 1950s accelerated automation, with the development of numerical control (NC) machines at MIT in 1952, which used punched tape to automate complex machining tasks like milling and contouring, improving precision and reducing labor dependency in aerospace and manufacturing. By the 1970s, computer integration further embedded digital controls into production lines, enhancing efficiency amid economic pressures. The 1973-1974 oil crises, triggered by OAPEC's embargo and production cuts, quadrupled global oil prices and prompted a shift toward energy-efficient methods, as U.S. and European industries faced rising costs that accelerated and resource optimization starting in the mid-1970s. This era's focus on efficiency influenced the transition to modern practices, where from the 1990s onward integrated digital tools like information and communication technologies () into supply chains, enabling fragmented, cross-border networks and boosting through transfers.

Intermittent Production Methods

Job Production

Job production is a manufacturing approach focused on creating unique, customized products in low volumes or as one-off items to meet specific customer requirements, often involving one or a small group of skilled workers completing an entire job before moving to the next. This method emphasizes flexibility and over , utilizing general-purpose machinery and tools that can be adapted for diverse tasks, with production quantities typically ranging from 1 to 100 units per year. It contrasts with higher-volume methods by prioritizing craftsmanship and individual , making it ideal for non-standardized outputs. The process in job production begins with receiving a detailed customer order, followed by an or phase where a is developed, specifying materials, tools, methods, and timelines tailored to the job's uniqueness. Fabrication then proceeds through manual and iterative adjustments, often requiring constant communication with the client for refinements, and concludes with rigorous quality checks specific to the product. This sequential results in significant setup times and variability between jobs, as each requires reconfiguration of resources and processes. Representative examples of job production include the construction of bespoke ships or bridges, the creation of custom furniture or tailor-made suits, prototype development in aerospace engineering, and handmade wedding dresses. These applications highlight its use in scenarios demanding high customization, such as one-off prototypes or specialized machinery. Key advantages of job production lie in its high degree of flexibility, allowing precise adaptation to customer specifications, and the resulting superior quality through skilled labor involvement in the entire process, which also fosters worker satisfaction via varied tasks. However, disadvantages include elevated costs from specialized materials and expert labor, extended lead times due to the bespoke nature, and limited economies of scale, leading to higher per-unit prices and inefficiency for repetitive production. Job production finds primary applications in industries with low demand but high product variety, such as projects, custom apparel tailoring, and prototyping, where the focus is on fulfilling niche or needs rather than output. In terms of metrics, emphasis is placed on per-job costing, which allocates direct labor, materials, and overheads ly to each order, rather than measuring overall throughput or efficiency rates.

Batch Production

Batch production is a technique in which identical products are produced in discrete groups, known as batches, allowing for repetition within each group while enabling variety across different batches. This method utilizes general-purpose equipment and to handle medium-volume output, where products vary slightly between batches but share similar specifications. It is particularly suited for small to medium production runs of high-value items, often involving complex unit operations that are sensitive to changes in conditions, such as mixing, forming, or chemical reactions conducted in vessels over defined time periods. The process in batch production begins with scheduling, where production orders are grouped by product type to optimize machine utilization. Each batch undergoes setup, including reconfiguration of facilities—ranging from simple adjustments like tool changes to more extensive mechanical alterations—to prepare for the specific product. The batch then progresses through multi-stage operations, such as material preparation, processing in functional departments (e.g., forming or ), and , moving as a unit between stages. of work-in-progress is held between operations to manage flow, with the batch size typically ranging from a few units to thousands, after which the completed batch is divided into individual units for storage or distribution. This intermittent approach contrasts with continuous methods by incorporating pauses for setups and transfers, often resulting in 90% idle time for in-process materials due to scheduling complexities. Representative examples of batch production include the manufacturing of bakery goods, where a commercial bakery mixes dough for a specific lot of white bread to fill an oven capacity before switching to another variety; pharmaceutical production, such as compounding and tableting batches of pills with uniform composition; and clothing lines, where garments are sewn in groups by size or color variants using shared machinery. These cases illustrate how batching enables efficient handling of similar items while accommodating product diversity. Batch production offers moderate flexibility to adapt to changes in demand or product specifications, making it more efficient than fully custom methods by spreading setup costs over multiple units and improving resource utilization through grouped processing. It also facilitates better , as each batch can be adjusted for specifications without blending outputs, and supports continuous via repetition. However, it leads to work-in-progress buildup between stages, increasing holding costs, and incurs during setups and changeovers, which can reduce overall efficiency—particularly in environments where utilization may be as low as 6% per shift. Additionally, the emphasis on scheduling and the nonlinearity of time-varying processes can complicate operations and limit for very high volumes. This method finds ideal applications in industries with seasonal or variable demand, such as for perishable items like baked goods, chemicals for specialty formulations, and consumer goods like apparel or components, where it balances needs with cost-effective medium-scale output. Batch production accounts for approximately 75% of the value of discrete engineered products in the U.S., supporting flexible reconfiguration of facilities to meet diverse requirements. A key concept in optimizing is the (EBQ) model, which determines the optimal batch size to minimize total costs by balancing setup costs against holding costs. The model assumes constant rate D (units per time), setup cost S per batch, and holding cost H per unit per time, with instantaneous and no shortages. The total relevant cost per unit time, TC(Q), where Q is the batch size, consists of the setup cost rate and the average holding cost rate: TC(Q) = \frac{D S}{Q} + \frac{Q H}{2} The first term, \frac{D S}{Q}, represents the annualized setup cost, as the number of batches per time is D/Q. The second term, \frac{Q H}{2}, is the holding cost based on average inventory of Q/2 under a sawtooth pattern that depletes from Q to 0. To find the minimum, take the derivative with respect to Q and set it to zero: \frac{d TC}{d Q} = -\frac{D S}{Q^2} + \frac{H}{2} = 0 Solving for Q: \frac{D S}{Q^2} = \frac{H}{2} \implies Q^2 = \frac{2 D S}{H} \implies Q = \sqrt{\frac{2 D S}{H}} This EBQ formula yields the batch size that achieves the cost minimum, as the second \frac{d^2 TC}{d Q^2} = \frac{2 D S}{Q^3} > 0 confirms a minimum. For instance, if annual demand D = 1200 units, setup cost S = \$100 per batch, and holding cost H = \$5 per unit per year, the EBQ is \sqrt{2 \times 1200 \times 100 / 5} = \sqrt{48000} \approx 219 units, reducing total costs compared to arbitrary batch sizes. This model provides a foundational for scheduling in batch environments, though extensions account for finite production rates.

Continuous Production Methods

Flow Production

Flow production is a continuous method characterized by the sequential and uninterrupted movement of work-in-progress along a linear , typically using automated systems to produce high volumes of standardized products. This approach emphasizes uniformity, with products progressing through specialized workstations where each stage adds value without pauses, minimizing work-in-progress between operations. The process involves a structured of workstations connected by conveyor belts or automated systems, ensuring balanced pacing across the line to prevent bottlenecks. Materials enter at one end, undergo sequential operations—such as , , or —and emerge as at the other, with line balancing optimizing task allocation so that the time at each station aligns closely with the overall rhythm. This setup requires precise , often incorporating for repetitive tasks to maintain a steady . Prominent examples include automotive assembly lines, where vehicles like the were historically produced using this method to achieve mass output, as well as electronics manufacturing for circuit boards and consumer devices, and beverage production lines for bottling items like soft drinks by companies such as . Flow production offers advantages such as high through reduced setup and idle times, leading to lower unit costs and consistent product quality due to standardized processes; for instance, it can cut production times by 50-70% and reduce defect rates by up to 90%. However, it has disadvantages including low flexibility for product changes or , high initial setup costs ranging from $500,000 to $5 million, and vulnerability to disruptions, where a single breakdown can halt the entire line. This method finds primary applications in industries requiring high-demand, standardized goods, such as automotive manufacturing for vehicles, for appliances and components, and for and beverages, where volumes often exceed 10,000 units annually to justify the . Key metrics in flow production include and line balancing, which ensure production aligns with demand. , the maximum allowable time to produce one unit, is calculated as: \text{Takt time} = \frac{\text{Available production time}}{\text{Customer demand rate}} For example, if a shift provides 480 minutes of available time and customer demand requires 120 , the takt time is $480 \div 120 = 4 minutes per , meaning the line must complete one every 4 minutes to meet demand without excess . Line complements by distributing tasks across workstations to equalize cycle times, minimizing idle capacity and bottlenecks; it achieves this through time studies and task reallocation, targeting a balance where each station's output matches the takt time, thereby optimizing overall line efficiency.

Process Production

Process production, also known as , is a method that involves the ongoing chemical or physical transformation of raw materials, such as fluids, chemicals, or bulk solids, into homogeneous products using fixed equipment and a predetermined or formula. Unlike , it produces outputs without identifiable individual units, relying on steady-state operations where inputs flow continuously through reactors and processing units to achieve uniform results. This approach is particularly suited for industries handling indivisible materials, ensuring consistent quality through automated, uninterrupted processes. The core steps in process production begin with the continuous feeding of raw materials into specialized reactors or vessels, where chemical reactions or physical changes occur under controlled conditions. Key variables, such as , , and flow rates, are continuously monitored and adjusted to maintain optimal performance and prevent deviations from the desired output specifications. Following the , the resulting undergoes separation, purification, and storage stages, often involving , , or to isolate the final product before it is packaged or distributed. Representative examples of process production include oil , where crude oil is continuously distilled and cracked into fuels and ; steel , involving the and of ores in blast furnaces to produce molten metal; and water treatment plants, which process large volumes of through , , and disinfection to yield potable supplies. Process production offers significant advantages, including its suitability for 24/7 operations that maximize equipment utilization and achieve through high-volume output, while requiring minimal labor due to heavy . However, it demands high initial capital investment for specialized, fixed and lacks flexibility for rapid changes in product recipes or formulations, making startups and shutdowns costly and time-intensive. This method finds primary applications in producing commodities within the sector, such as and polymers from feedstocks; , exemplified by the continuous refining of from or beets into granulated products; and utilities, including the generation of , , or treated for industrial and municipal use. A key concept in process production is the use of process control systems, particularly proportional-integral-derivative () controllers, which automatically regulate variables like and to maintain steady-state conditions. The algorithm computes an error value as the difference between a measured and a desired setpoint, then applies a corrective output through the formula: u(t) = K_p e(t) + K_i \int_0^t e(\tau) \, d\tau + K_d \frac{de(t)}{dt} Here, K_p is the proportional that provides an output proportional to the current error for immediate response; K_i is the that accumulates past errors to eliminate steady-state offsets; and K_d is the derivative that predicts future errors based on the rate of change to dampen oscillations. These controllers are essential for ensuring and efficiency in continuous operations, such as those in refineries and chemical plants.

Modern Production Approaches

Lean Production

Lean production is a systematic approach to manufacturing and operations that originated from the (TPS), emphasizing the elimination of waste to deliver maximum value to customers with minimal resources. It focuses on identifying and removing non-value-adding activities across the entire , from raw materials to customer delivery, through principles such as just-in-time production, which ensures materials arrive exactly when needed, and continuous improvement, known as , which involves ongoing efforts to enhance processes. serves as a key tool to visualize and analyze the flow of materials and information, highlighting inefficiencies for targeted improvements. At its core, lean production distinguishes between value-added activities, which directly contribute to customer satisfaction, and non-value-added activities, which do not. The philosophy identifies seven primary types of waste, or muda, including overproduction, waiting, unnecessary transportation, excess processing, excess inventory, unnecessary motion, and defects requiring correction. To combat these, lean employs tools like the 5S methodology: Sort (remove unnecessary items), Set in order (organize for efficiency), Shine (clean and maintain), Standardize (establish routines), and Sustain (ensure adherence through discipline). These tools promote a workplace that supports flow and reduces errors, fostering a culture of respect for people and problem-solving. Implementation of production typically follows a structured five-step process: first, specify value from the customer's perspective; second, map the current to identify ; third, create by eliminating bottlenecks; fourth, establish pull systems to produce only what is demanded; and fifth, pursue perfection through iterative events. Organizations begin by identifying through observation and , then standardize processes to maintain gains, and empower frontline workers to suggest improvements, often via systems or cross-functional teams. This bottom-up involvement ensures sustainability and adaptability. A seminal example is Toyota's system, a visual signaling tool that triggers production or replenishment only when inventory levels drop below a threshold, enabling pull-based manufacturing and reducing overproduction. Beyond manufacturing, principles have been applied in healthcare to streamline patient flows and reduce wait times, as seen in initiatives at , which reduced patient wait times and improved productivity. In software development, companies like Theodo have adapted TPS-inspired defect reduction techniques, achieving significant quality improvements by applying to code reviews and testing cycles. As of 2025, lean production has evolved with digital technologies, including (AI) and the (IIoT), to enhance waste identification and process optimization. For instance, AI enables for , reducing downtime, while IIoT sensors support smart factories for continuous flow monitoring. Examples include Amazon's use of AI-driven analytics to apply lean principles in , minimizing inefficiencies across supply chains. Lean production offers advantages such as reduced levels, which free up and space, and faster response times to customer demands through shorter lead times enabled by minimized setups. However, it requires a profound cultural shift toward employee and long-term thinking, which can encounter initial resistance from workers accustomed to traditional hierarchies. Sustaining lean demands ongoing leadership commitment to overcome such barriers. A key metric for evaluating performance is (OEE), which measures how effectively equipment contributes to producing good parts at optimal speed. OEE is calculated as the product of three factors: (run time divided by planned production time, accounting for ), Performance (ideal cycle time multiplied by total count divided by run time, reflecting speed losses), and (good count divided by total count, capturing defect rates). The formula is: \text{OEE} = \text{Availability} \times \text{Performance} \times \text{Quality} This metric provides a holistic view of losses, targeting world-class benchmarks around 85% for continuous improvement efforts.

Just-in-Time Production

Just-in-time (JIT) production is a demand-driven manufacturing strategy that synchronizes production with customer demand by producing goods only as needed, thereby minimizing inventory levels and associated costs. Originating from the Toyota Production System, JIT employs a pull mechanism where production is triggered by actual consumption signals rather than forecasts, ensuring materials flow smoothly through the system without excess stockpiling. Key characteristics include the elimination of waste through precise timing, reliance on visual control systems for workflow management, and a focus on continuous improvement to achieve zero inventory between processes. The JIT process involves several integrated steps to align supply with immediate production needs. Supplier integration begins with establishing long-term partnerships with reliable vendors, negotiating contracts for and commitments, often requiring suppliers to maintain capabilities synchronized with the manufacturer's . Small-lot sizing follows, where batches are reduced to the smallest feasible size—ideally one —to shorten times and facilitate rapid adjustments to changes. Frequent deliveries are coordinated, with parts arriving multiple times daily or even hourly from nearby suppliers to support just-in-time assembly. Buffer stock is minimized across the , maintaining only essential safety stocks to handle minor variations while avoiding or . A central element of JIT is the kanban system, which uses visual signals to control material flow and authorize production or withdrawals only when necessary. In the traditional two-bin variant, two containers hold parts: when the first bin empties during use, the second bin's kanban card signals replenishment from upstream processes or suppliers, preventing overstocking. kanban variants replace physical cards with digital signals, such as scans or software alerts, to automate authorizations in modern facilities while maintaining the pull principle. This system enhances throughput by linking production rates to , with lead time reduction achieved through formulas approximating lead time as setup time plus (cycle time per unit multiplied by batch size), where smaller batches and quicker setups proportionally decrease overall delays. Prominent examples of JIT implementation include Dell's build-to-order model for computers, where components are ordered and assembled only after customer specifications are received, enabling with minimal . In the Japanese automotive sector, suppliers deliver parts hourly to assembly lines, as seen in Toyota's network, ensuring seamless integration and reducing storage needs across the . JIT finds primary applications in high-variety, low-inventory environments such as electronics manufacturing, where rapid product iterations demand flexible assembly, and the , which benefits from synchronized parts delivery to support just-in-time vehicle production. Advantages of JIT include lower storage and holding costs due to reduced material volumes, as well as improved from tying capital to actual sales rather than stockpiles. It also enhances production flexibility, allowing quicker responses to market shifts through shorter runs. However, disadvantages encompass heightened vulnerability to disruptions, such as supplier delays or quality issues, which can halt operations without buffer stocks. This vulnerability was starkly illustrated during the (2020–2022), which caused widespread shortages in industries like automotive and semiconductors due to JIT's minimal , prompting criticisms and adaptations toward hybrid models incorporating modest safety stocks and enhanced supplier resiliency measures as of 2025. Successful JIT requires dependable partners and robust forecasting, as unreliable suppliers can amplify risks in this approach. As a core tool in lean production, JIT specifically targets timing to reduce waste.

References

  1. [1]
    Understanding Manufacturing: Definitions, Processes, and ...
    Manufacturing is the conversion of raw materials into finished products through the use of tools, human labor, machinery, and chemical processing.Missing: authoritative | Show results with:authoritative
  2. [2]
    Operations: Methods of Production (Overview)
    ### Summary of Methods of Production
  3. [3]
    Understanding operations management: View as single page
    This course presents a process model of operations that describes inputs being transformed into outputs within the boundary of an operations system. It also ...
  4. [4]
    [PDF] BA4204 OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT L T P C 3 0 0 3 UNIT I ...
    2. Unit – I Operations Management. Definition: Production/operations management is the process, which combines and. transforms various resources used in the ...
  5. [5]
    Production vs. Manufacturing: What's the Difference? - NetSuite
    Nov 4, 2024 · Production is the all-encompassing process of creating and distributing any type of good or service. Manufacturing is a subset of production, ...What Is Production? · Production vs. Manufacturing... · Key Differences Between...
  6. [6]
    16.1 Operations Management in Manufacturing - VCU Pressbooks
    Operations management transforms resources into goods/services. In manufacturing, it includes production planning, control, and quality control.
  7. [7]
    Chapter 10 Operations Management - Pressbooks at Virginia Tech
    During production planning, managers determine how goods will be produced, where production will take place, and how manufacturing facilities will be laid out.
  8. [8]
    The Merit of Making Things Fast - MIT Sloan Management Review
    Oct 15, 1988 · Throughput time is best defined as the weighted average time through the process of all the units of a representative batch or order. Thus, if ...Missing: methods | Show results with:methods
  9. [9]
  10. [10]
    Craft Guilds, Apprenticeship, and Technological Change in ...
    Mar 3, 2009 · This article argues that medieval craft guilds emerged in order to provide transferable skills through apprenticeship.
  11. [11]
  12. [12]
    Industrial Revolution and Technology
    Nov 15, 2024 · The steam engine turned the wheels of mechanized factory production. Its emergence freed manufacturers from the need to locate their factories ...
  13. [13]
    The Steam Engine in the British Industrial Revolution
    Feb 8, 2023 · The efficiency of the early steam engines was improved thanks to the Scottish instrument maker James Watt (1736-1819) in 1769 and again in 1778 ...
  14. [14]
    Eli Whitney's Patent for the Cotton Gin | National Archives
    Dec 16, 2021 · In 1798, he figured out how to manufacture muskets by machine so that the parts were interchangeable. It was as a manufacturer of muskets that ...
  15. [15]
    The Factory | The Eli Whitney Museum and Workshop
    Whitney's goal was to create a system using unskilled labor and machines making the parts to increase production and do it at a reduced cost. ...
  16. [16]
    Assembly Line Revolution | Articles - Ford Motor Company
    Sep 3, 2020 · Discover the 1913 breakthrough: Ford's assembly line reduces costs, increases wages and puts cars in reach of the masses.
  17. [17]
    The History of CNC Machinery - Laszeray Technology
    Sep 28, 2019 · Early CNC machines in the 1940s and 1950s used punched tape, which was then commonly used in telecommunications and data storage. This ...
  18. [18]
    A Brief History of Automation in Manufacturing: Then and Now
    World War II brought innovation out of necessity, inspiring the automation of production ... Local infrastructure is integrated into edge computing data centers ...
  19. [19]
    Oil Shock of 1973-74 - Federal Reserve History
    The embargo ceased US oil imports from participating OAPEC nations, and began a series of production cuts that altered the world price of oil.
  20. [20]
    Reflections on the Oil Shock of 40 Years Ago - Resources Magazine
    Apr 11, 2014 · ... 1970s helped set the nation on a course of steadily rising energy efficiency. Fostered through private innovation and driven by policy ...Missing: methods | Show results with:methods
  21. [21]
    Globalisation, automation and the history of work - UNCTAD
    While the first couple of decades of ICT had an enormous impact on automation, from around 1990, ICT came to have enormous effects on globalisation. This ...
  22. [22]
    Globalization Helps Spread Knowledge and Technology Across ...
    Apr 9, 2018 · In emerging markets, the transfer of technology has helped to boost innovation and productivity even in the recent period of weak global ...
  23. [23]
    [PDF] A Batch Processing Module - MIT
    Batch Processing – Definition,. Advantages, Disadvantages. • A sequence of one more steps (recipe) usually carried out in more than one vessel and in a.
  24. [24]
    None
    ### Batch Production Summary
  25. [25]
    [PDF] " LL - Stacks
    production, but rather by batch production techniques. Page 11. 3. Batch production uses manufacturing facilities in a flexible manner. The facilities are ...
  26. [26]
    [PDF] inventory control and economic order quantity in
    (iii) Economic Ordering Quantity (EOQ) or Economic Batch Quantity (EBQ): This is a calculated ordering quantity, which minimize the balance of costs between ...
  27. [27]
    [PDF] 1 The EOQ and Extensions
    Sep 9, 2004 · The EOQ model, a specialization of EPQ, is used when product is ordered, balancing fixed ordering and inventory holding costs.Missing: explanation | Show results with:explanation
  28. [28]
    Flow Production – A Quick Guide for SMEs - MRPeasy
    Rating 4.6 (215) Jul 1, 2025 · Flow production means manufacturing never stops. Materials enter at one end and finished products come out the other in a continuous stream.
  29. [29]
    What is Flow Production – And Can SMEs Use it?
    Jan 28, 2022 · Flow production is a manufacturing process that is defined by the continuous 'flow' of goods along an assembly line.
  30. [30]
    What Is Line Balancing & How To Achieve It - Tulip Interfaces
    Line balancing is a production strategy that involves balancing operator and machine time to match the production rate to the takt time. ... Calculate takt time.
  31. [31]
    Takt time for Production Excellence. Calculate and Implement
    Mar 14, 2024 · Takt time is the maximum time to produce one unit, calculated as Available Working Time divided by Required Output, to match customer demand.
  32. [32]
    What is Process Manufacturing? Definition and Examples - TechTarget
    Jul 19, 2023 · Process manufacturing is a production method in which goods are created by combining supplies, ingredients or raw materials using a predetermined formula or ...Missing: characteristics | Show results with:characteristics
  33. [33]
    Process Manufacturing: Definition, Benefits and Examples
    Sep 12, 2023 · Process manufacturing is a method of combining supplies, such as ingredients or raw materials, and using a predetermined formula or recipe to produce something.Missing: characteristics | Show results with:characteristics
  34. [34]
    Process Manufacturing: Definition, Benefits, and Industries
    Jun 23, 2023 · Process manufacturing refers to producing finished goods by combining components, ingredients, and raw materials under specific thermal and pressure conditions.What Is Process... · Key Benefits Of Process... · Faqs
  35. [35]
    Manufacturing Process definition - aPriori
    Manufacturing is the process of transforming raw materials or components into finished products. The manufacturing process provides a step-by-step blueprint to ...Additive · Assembly · Composites
  36. [36]
    [PDF] 5.1 Petroleum Refining1 - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
    Examples are boilers, waste water treatment facilities, hydrogen plants, cooling towers, and sulfur recovery units. Products from auxiliary facilities. (clean ...
  37. [37]
    An Overview of Refinery Products and Processes | FSC 432
    Finishing processes involve hydrotreating to remove heteroatoms (S, N, and metals) and product blending to produce fuels and materials with desired ...Missing: steel smelting
  38. [38]
    6 Steps of the Steel Manufacturing Process - Dixon Valve
    Nov 15, 2023 · The steel manufacturing process can be divided into six steps: Making the iron, primary steelmaking, secondary steelmaking, casting, primary forming, and ...
  39. [39]
    Steel Industry Water Treatment | Veolia
    Veolia can help the steel industry achieve its goals by providing fouling and corrosion protection solutions, steel mill water and wastewater treatment.Missing: refining smelting
  40. [40]
    Continuous Production: Advantages & Disadvantages + Examples
    Dec 4, 2023 · You'll lower your labour costs by automating and accelerating many common processes. It allows manufacturers to achieve longer production runs.
  41. [41]
    Petrochemical Process - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics
    Petrochemical industries are specialized in the production of petrochemicals that have various industrial applications and can be considered a sub-sector of the ...
  42. [42]
    Utilities Management in the Food Industry - PMG Engineering
    Utilities in a food processing plant include environmental air, compressed air, water, and steam—all of which are crucial for food safety, hygiene, and ...Missing: petrochemicals | Show results with:petrochemicals
  43. [43]
  44. [44]
    What is a PID Controller? - Dewesoft
    Jun 19, 2024 · Various process control applications use PID controllers to regulate pressure, level, and composition in systems such as oil refineries, power ...
  45. [45]
    Toyota Production System - Lean Enterprise Institute
    The production system developed by Toyota Motor Corporation to provide best quality, lowest cost, and shortest lead time through the elimination of waste.
  46. [46]
    Toyota Production System | Vision & Philosophy | Company
    A production system based on the philosophy of achieving the complete elimination of waste in pursuit of the most efficient methods.
  47. [47]
    Value Stream Mapping Overview - Lean Enterprise Institute
    Value-stream mapping (VSM) is diagraming every step involved in the material and information flows needed to bring a product from order to delivery.Missing: 5S muda<|separator|>
  48. [48]
    What are the 7 Wastes in Lean? | Lean Enterprise Institute
    7 Wastes Video Series · Overproduction · Waiting · Conveyance · Excess Processing · Excess Inventory · Excess Motion · Correction.Missing: 5S | Show results with:5S
  49. [49]
    5S - The Way to Start Your Lean Journey…or Is It?
    Sep 12, 2017 · Many people think that a 5S implementation is the perfect way to kickstart a full lean transformation. It can be - IF you do it right.
  50. [50]
    The Five Steps of Lean Implementation - Lean Enterprise Institute
    May 18, 2000 · The Five Steps of Lean Implementation · Step 1: Specify Value · Step 2: Map · Step 3: Flow · Step 4: Pull · Step 5: Perfection
  51. [51]
    Item 4. Development and Deployment of the Toyota Production System
    The Toyota Production System (TPS) is based on Just-in-Time and jidoka, using kanban to reinforce Just-in-Time production.
  52. [52]
    Lean Management—The Journey from Toyota to Healthcare - PMC
    Several examples of successful implementation of comprehensive lean projects in healthcare institutions were reported. For example, at Virginia Mason Medical ...
  53. [53]
    Lean Post – Software's Quality Leap
    Feb 29, 2024 · Discover three critical lessons Theodo used to dramatically reduce bugs in its software development process.
  54. [54]
    Ask Art: What's So Important About Reducing Setup Times?
    Oct 26, 2022 · Reducing setup times frees capacity, enables smaller batches, faster response, and reduces lead times and inventory, leading to lower costs.Missing: response | Show results with:response
  55. [55]
    The Challenges of Lean Transformation and Implementation ... - MDPI
    It is challenging to sustain Lean without a culture shift and a clear direction set by the organization's leadership team. The originality of the paper relates ...
  56. [56]
    OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) - Lean Manufacturing
    OEE is the ratio of Fully Productive Time to Planned Production Time. Schedule Loss is not included in OEE calculations since there is no intention of running ...What Is OEE? · OEE Benchmarks · Simple OEE Calculations
  57. [57]
    Lean manufacturing and Toyota Production System terminology ...
    The Toyota Production System (TPS), formerly also known as “just in time production” (JIT), is an integrated socio-technical system that can be defined as the ...
  58. [58]
    [PDF] Toyota Production System
    # Just-In-Time (JIT) JIT means producing only what is needed, when it is needed, and in the amount needed. This reduces inventory costs and ensures a smooth ...Missing: definition | Show results with:definition
  59. [59]
    Just-in-Time (JIT) Inventory: A Definition and Comprehensive Guide
    Nov 8, 2024 · Small Lot Size: In JIT, one is the ideal lot size. The small size reduces in-process inventory, carrying costs, storage space, and makes for ...
  60. [60]
    Just-in-Time (JIT) in Lean Manufacturing? Toyota Production System
    Jun 28, 2024 · Manufacturers develop close supplier partnerships with frequent deliveries of small lot sizes to minimize incoming inventory.
  61. [61]
    A review of “kanban”—the Japanese “Just-In-Time” production system
    This paper presents a review of recently published articles addressing the Japanese Just-In-Time (JIT) production and inventory system known as“kanban”.
  62. [62]
    [PDF] Reducing internal lead times in MTO & job-shop production ...
    ... time for manufacturing the product, i.e. the manufacturing lead time, was: Set-up time (79.94 min) + (cycle time * batch size) (40 sec * 300) = 279.94 min.
  63. [63]
    Just-in-Time (JIT): Definition, Example, Pros, and Cons - Investopedia
    A just-in-time (JIT) inventory system is a management strategy that aligns raw-material orders from suppliers directly with production schedules.Missing: integration lot sizing
  64. [64]
    The logistics of Just-in-Time between parts suppliers and car ...
    This study is an attempt to elucidate the spatial structure of “Just-in-Time” (JIT)-based logistics for the distribution of automotive parts in Japan.
  65. [65]
    10 Industries that Benefit from JIT (Just-In-Time) Delivery Systems in ...
    Feb 13, 2025 · 1. Automotive industry. 2. Electronics manufacturing. 3. Fashion and apparel. 4. Food and beverage industry. 5. Retail. 6. Healthcare. 7.
  66. [66]
    Just-in-Time (JIT) Advantages Disadvantages - CIPS
    The JIT system does not cope well with sudden changes in demand and supply. · Implementing the system can be challenging and time-consuming. · Unexpected effects ...