Production processes study guide

A manufacturing method where each product is made individually to meet a specific customer requirement, typically involving low volume and high cost per unit.

Flow production is a manufacturing method where a product moves through a sequence of stations in a continuous, linear process, producing large volumes of identical items.

Lean production is a systematic approach to identifying and eliminating waste in all forms—time, materials, and effort—to create more value for customers with fewer resources.

A manufacturing strategy that aims to minimise inventory by receiving goods only as they are needed in the production process.

Exam practice

• Which production method is most suitable for a bespoke sofa designed to a customer's exact specifications?
• Explain the main difference between job production and flow production.
• A small manufacturer produces bespoke wooden tables for local cafés. Which production method is most suitable?
• Explain why a small manufacturer would choose job production over flow production.
• Which lean production technique is most directly aimed at reducing inventory levels?
• Explain how lean production techniques can improve production efficiency in a small manufacturer.
• Which of the following best describes how just‑in‑time (JIT) production can improve efficiency in a small manufacturer?
• Explain how just‑in‑time production can affect efficiency in an online service business that relies on rapid order fulfilment.