Details

28 mins, 2009

Textbooks speak of three methods of production – job, batch and continuous flow. This film shows how the methods work in the real work.

JOB V BATCH: Job production is when you’re making a one-off – anything from a dam to a musical instrument. Batch production is using the same equipment to make batches of different products. The biggest problem with batch production is the changeover – the time it takes to switch from making one type of product to another.

CONTINUOUS: Continuous flow, mass production is the most well-known type of manufacturing. The making of the product is broken down into small, simple tasks, carried out by people – or robots. Choosing the method of production depends on many factors – from the type of product you’re making to the capital cost and the size of the market. In Britain companies tend to go in for flexible manufacturing.

THE BIG QUESTION: But what about bigger questions, like the impact of different types of production on the environment and on society? Should we be aiming for sustainable production – making products locally and not for profit but for need?

EXTRA: Film shows how some of the most exclusive watches in the world are made – by hand.

Key Topics

• Production
• Flexible Manufacturing
• Manufacturing Decisions