2.4.1 Production, productivity and efficiency (2/4) Methods - Cell + Flow

Question 1

Synonym for self contained

Answer 1

Separate

Question 2

Cell production

Answer 2

Splits a continuous flow production line into self contained units

Each cell will produce a significant part of the finished article

Question 3

Advantages of cell production (4)

Answer 3

• Greater worker motivation arising from things like team working having more responsibility, not carrying out repetitive tasks - can make them feel more happier which increase productivity
• Because each cell/group is responsible for a part of the finish product.they may take pride in their work. can result in HIGHER quality

Question 4

Disadvantages of cell production (3)

Answer 4

• Conflict may arise if one cell is left to wait for output from another. May hinder company culture
• Products are removed from the flow at each cell, therefore productivity can be lower than flow production. You’re not using machinery as intensively as flow production

Question 5

Flow (Mass) production

Answer 5

A large scale production where identical products are being produced on after another.

Question 6

Where are products produced in flow (mass production)

Answer 6

used on assembly line to produce products one after the other.

Question 7

Advantages of flow production (3)

Answer 7

• Very low units costs due to EOS e.g can bulk buy raw materials. -
• can charge lower prices as a result making them more competitive
• Production is quicker- therefore higher levels of output pumped out a fast rate. -> Can achieve EOS more quickly

Staff can become specialised in one aspect of production leading to increased productivity levels

Question 8

Disadvantages of flow production (3)

Answer 8

• High start up costs to buy factory + machinery
• Low motivation of staff due to repetitive tasks
• Break downs and lost of production can be costly